FG to ASUU: Resume or get sacked

...towards a better life for the people

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VOL. 25: NO. 62025

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

ROBBERY KINGPIN, GODOGODO, CONFESSES:

How I directed Lagos Black Sunday Robbery

ONLINE | www.vanguardngr.com

N150

APC TO JEGA: Forget tomorrow's election in Anambra 46

6

FG to ASUU: Resume or get sacked

BY OLA AJAYI, GBENGA ARIYIBI, LAIDE AKINBOADE & LAJU ARENYEKA

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•Orders VCs to re-open varsities •Accuses unions of sabotage •We won't be intimidated— ASUU

BUJA —THE fivemonth-old face-off between the Federal Government and Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, over non-implementation of the 2009 agreement assumed a dramatic dimension yesterday, as the government vowed to sack any lecturer who fails to return to class within seven days.

The government has,

therefore, directed all vice-chancellors of federal universities that are currently on strike to immediately re-open for academic and allied activities.

The striking lecturers on their part, declared the directive by the Federal Government a joke,

Continues on page 4

Joining APC not solution to PDP crisis — Lamido 9 COLUMNIST:

•P.17

Mr & Mrs

APC PROTEST:Leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (rtd); Chief Bisi Akande and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu (top and below left) protesting against the Anambra State governorship election, yesterday, at the INEC headquarters, Abuja under the watchful eyes of the Police (top and below right.) More pix and stories on Pages15, 52&53

BOKO HARAM: Kogi State varsity, ASUU disown arrested lecturer 48

2 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 — 3

C M Y K

4—Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

POCKET CARTOON

ECONOMIC FORUM— From left: Minister for Trade and Industry, Mr. Olusegun Aganga; Special Adviser to Kano State Governor on Economic Matters, Mr. Aminu Mukhtar; Denmark Ambassador to Ghana, Mrs. Margit Thomsen; and Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria National Competitiveness Council, Mr. Chika Mordi during the World Economic Forum in Lagos, yesterday.

FG to ASUU: Resume or get sacked Continues from page 1 saying they will never be intimidated into calling off the strike.

Supervising Minister of Education, Mr Nyesom Wike who briefed journalists in Abuja yesterday on the strike said it was rather unfortunate that after a 13-hour meeting with President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja on November 4, 2013, the

union came up with new conditions before they could call off the strike.

He said it was obvious that the new conditions put forward by ASUU were not in the interest of the nation. One of the conditions was that President Jonathan should facilitate endorsement of resolutions reached with him, which must be signed by a high ranking govern-

LIFEWORDS

BY PASTOR ITUAH

A proud man is always looking down on people; and as long as you are looking down, you cannot see something that is up.

TAKE HEART

BY ELLA RANDLE

E

ach of us has a fire in our hearts for some thing. It’s our goal in life to find it and to keep it lit —Mary Lou Retton Neil Simon brilliant words are beautiful to imbibe in a world where most people struggle for survival.

He says, don’t listen to those who say, “It’s not done that way.” Maybe it’s not, but maybe you will. Don’t listen to those who say, “You’re taking too big a chance.” Michelangelo would have painted the Sistine floor, and it would surely be rubbed out by today. Most importantly, don’t listen when the little voice of fear inside of you rears its ugly head and says, “They’re all smarter than you out there.

They’re more talented, they’re taller, blonder, prettier, luckier and have connections…” I firmly believe that if you follow a path that interests you, not to the exclusion of love, sensitivity, and cooperation with others, but with the strength of conviction that you can move others by your own efforts, and do not make success or failure the criteria by which you live, the chances are you’ll be a person worthy of your own respect.

You have to understand that your struggle may be an opportunity for advancement and promotion.

The very thing you are fighting against so tenaciously may be the springboard that catapults you to a new level of excellence. Your challenges may become your greatest assets.

ment official, preferably the Attorney-General of the Federation but not a permanent secretary.

ASUU said their representative as well as the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Abdulwahid Omar, would stand as witnesses.

The striking lecturers also wanted the N200 billion agreed upon as 2013 revitalisation fund for public universities to be lodged with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and disbursed to the benefitting universities. They also want the government to pay their salary arrears before resuming academic activities.

Resume or get sacked— Wike Speaking with newsmen, yesterday, Wike said: “All Vice-chancellors of Federal Universities that are on strike should immediately reopen for academic and allied activities as directed by their ProChancellors. ViceChancellors should ensure that staff who resume for work are provided with the enabling environment for academic and allied activities.

“Any academic staff who fails to resume on or before December 4, 2013, automatically ceases to be staff of the

institution and vicechancellors are also directed to advertise vacancies (internal and external) in their institutions”. He also accused ASUU of sabotaging the effort of government in addressing the issues especially after having a 13-hour meeting with President Jonathan where all issues were resolved and firm commitments were made.

He said ASUU first met with Vice- President Namadi Sambo but there was no positive response; so they met with President Jonathan on November 4.

He said: “On November 4, 2013, in a 13 hour meeting, President Goodluck Jonathan met with the ASUU executive, the labour union leaders from Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and Trade Union Congress, TUC, where all issues were resolved and firm commitments made to address the lingering issues.

“It is noteworthy that Mr. President’s gesture was more than sufficient to guarantee the commitment of Government to address all issues as resolved at the meeting with Mr. President.

“At the end of the meeting with Mr. President, the ASUU executive promised to meet with its National Executive Committee to present the resolutions reached and report back by Friday November 8, 2013.

“As a responsible government we cannot allow continuous closure of our public universities for this length of time (five months), as this poses danger to the education system, the future of our youths and national development”.

The minister therefore directed NUC to ensure all the Federal Government universities comply with the directives saying, “the National Universities Commission, NUC, is hereby directed to monitor the compliance of these directives by various institutions”.

When asked whether the directive by the Federal Government to vice chancellors to reopen was not against labour laws, he said if there were any grievances they should seek redress in the law court.

Threats will only worsen it—ASUU However, ASUU, in its reaction said the threat by the Federal Government to sack university lecturers would only worsen the situation and “another long path to make the strike linger more than necessary.”

With the threat, ASUU said it was evident now that the Federal Government was not ready to implement any resolutions it reached with the union.

While the government is threatening to sack the lecturers, the union disclosed that Nigerian public universities needed 60,000 lecturers owing to failure of government to employ.

The treasurer of the union, Dr. Ademola Aremu, who spoke on behalf of the union said the Federal Government would only succeed in wasting the time of Nigerians and youths in the country if it failed to

perfect the resolutions.

ASUU said it was trying to do all necessary things as regards the resolutions reached with the government because it had reneged on the promises it made with ASUP, resident doctors, and health workers.

Describing the threat as an insult to the sense and sensibilities of Nigerians who were waiting on the Federal Government for positive reaction, the union said, “ with the latest action, the Federal Government has shown that they are not committed to all they have been saying. We are saying that since we agreed at the meeting that the sum of N200 billion is for 2012 and 2013 revitalisation, the Federal Government should deposit same in the Central Bank of Nigeria.

We are already in November and December is around the corner. If they don’t do that now, when do they want to do it?. We are saying the non-victimisation clause should be included as agreed while the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement should be included as agreed with the President.

“It is a pity if the Federal Government is not willing to perfect the resolutions reached with union. This is why we find it difficult to hold our leaders by their words. How can someone be threatening to sack lecturers when universities are already short-staffed by almost 60,000. We are not in military era. The military tried it and failed. This one will fail again. They can re-open the schools.

ASUU did not shut down the universities. It was the school management that ordered the students to go back home.”

Continues on page 55

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 — 5

6—Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

Teenager docked over alleged burglary, stealing

BY ONOZURE DANIA

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AGOS— A 19-YEAROLD, Saheed Gafar, was, yesterday, arraigned before an Ikeja Magistrate's Court over alleged burglary and stealing of N765,000.

The defendant, who also resides at the same area, was docked before Magistrate Abimbola Komolafe.

The defendant is facing a two-count charge bordering on burglary and stealing.

The police prosecutor, Iranus Nnamonu, told the court that the defendant committed the alleged offences sometime in July 2013 at 16, Fadara Street, Ogba in Ikeja area of Lagos.

He said Gafar broke and entered into the apartment of one Donatus Onyeagbara and stole N750,000 and tiles worth N10,500, all property of Onyeagbara.

Nnamonu said the offence contravened section 306 and punishable under section 285 of the Criminal Law ii Vol 44 Laws of Lagos State of Nigeria 2011.

Earlier, the defendant had pleaded not guilty when the charge was read.

However, the magistrate granted him bail in the sum of N200,000, with two sureties in like sum and adjourned the case to February 28, 2014.

How I co-ordinated Lagos Black Sunday robbery — Godogodo L

fire on the patrol van and it veered off the road. We went after it and killed all the policemen in the van and collected their rifles. After that operation, we went to Alfa Beach to cool off.”

BY IFEANYI OKOLIE

AGOS — SUNDAY, Septem ber 9, 2012, will remain indelible in the minds of some families in Lagos State, who lost their loved ones to the brazen attack of a gang of heavily armed robbers, who laid siege to strategic points in the state, killing at least three policemen and several other citizens, while scores sustained injuries.

But the arrest of all the members of the gang that operated that day, including the notorious South-West robbery czar, Abiodun Ogunjobi, aka, Godogodo, would bring relief to relatives and friends of those killed or injured during the encounter.

Meanwhile, Godogodo, who was arrested by operatives of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad, SARS, led by SP Abba Kyari, on August 1, 2013, has revealed how he coordinated the bloody operation.

Bureaux de change robbery He gave chilling details of how he led members of the gang to cart away millions of dollars from bureau de change operators in Agege and Gbagada areas of Lagos.

According to Godogodo, “ On that fateful day, I called one of my boys, Sayeed Omolopa, to meet me at Alfa Beach in Ajah, and some other boys led by Kasali and Ejike.

“They were about seven and my boys were five. Yemi Boss, who came with Ejike, said we should go to Agege and rob some bureau de change operators. The agreement was that everyone will get what he lays his hands on.

“We used two vehicles and over nine AK-47 rifles. When we got to Agege, some bureau de change operators that saw us ran to us thinking we wanted to

The Abule Egba killings

Abiodun Ogunjobi, aka, Godogodo change money and we opened fire on them and ran into their shops to pack all the money we found.

“In fact, we robbed from shop to shop and we also shot sporadically to scare people. We shot at people who tried to block the road and prevent us from moving. I can’t count the number of people killed in that operation.

“Wherever people tried to block the road, we opened fire on them. The boys that went with me for that job were notorious, they were difficult to control but they all feared me.

We made a lot of money from the operation “While we were trying to escape, we met a team of policemen attached to the Rapid Response Squad, RRS, and we thought they were after us. On approaching them, we opened fire on the van and killed all the police in it and collected their rifles and escaped through Lagos-

5 Lagos trade fair officials in court over N247m fraud

BY ABDULWAHAB ABDULAH

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AGOS —THE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, yesterday arraigned five officials of the Lagos State International Trade Fair before an Ikeja High Court over alleged N247.746,097.31 fraud.

Those arraigned were Bassey Dominic, Okafor Ngozi Eunice, Francis Datla, Okocha Ajele Lazarus and

Kolo Banabas.

The five persons were accused of conspiracy and stealing, an offences the EFCC said ran contrary to the provisions of Sections 516 and 396 of the Criminal Code Cap 617 Vol 2 of Lagos State Nigeria, 2003.

They, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

They were said to have committed the offences on various dates between 2009 and 2012 by allegedly stealing the

money belonging to the management of Lagos International Trade Fair.

The prosecutor, Mr. O. P. Owodunni, of the EFCC told the court that the anti-graft commission was ready for the prosecution of the case.

The trial judge, Justice Kudirat Jose, set trial date for February 13, 17 and 18 of February 2014 and ordered that the suspects be remanded in EFCC custody, in Ikoyi.

Abekuta road.

“Money was not shared after the operation because everyone took whatever he was able to grab. When I got home I realised that I made over N500,000, but some days later, I was informed that one of my boys, Tosin, made over N6 million from the operation.

“Everybody made a lot of money from the operation. I didn’t border to read the newspapers the next day to know the extent of damage but I knew many people lost their lives in that operation. You know, as robbers, we do not go for operations to kill but we kill when we don’t have option.”

Why we killed policemen Godogodo also narrated how he and members of his gang killed four policemen at Ajah, in February 2013, snatching three AK-47 rifles from them.

He said he killed the policemen because he wanted to recover his nine rifles seized by the SARS operatives from one of his boys, Tosin.

Narrating the incident, Godogodo said: “After SARS operatives collected nine of my rifles, I was left with only two AK47 rifles and a pump action rifle.

“On that fateful day, we went to rob residents of Awoyaya area in Ajah. I was with Odun, Oluwole,Yinusa and Sayeed Omolopa.

“We robbed house-to-house and on our way home, we saw a police van and a policeman behind the van was sleeping, Odun suggested that we attack them and collect their rifles and I obliged.

“We drove a Sports Utility Van and approached them, opened

Godogodo also narrated how he killed a Police Inspector and a corporal at Abule Egba area of Lagos.

According to him, “Ife and Oleh brought the job, they told me that we should go and rob a man who had just returned from London with a huge sums of money and some drugs.

"We went to his house and discovered that he was not at home and we left in annoyance and went on to rob some people from house-to-house.

“On our way out, we spotted some policemen at Oko-Oba police station, they didn’t know that we were robbers. We killed them before collecting their rifles.

“Some few months later, we snatched a white Rang Rover Sport in Ikeja and two of the occupants escaped with their phones.

“We suspected that they were going to call the police. On arriving Agidingbi Road, we spotted two RRS men on a motorbike and we thought they were coming after us. We slowed down, by the time they got very close to us, I opened the window and fired rapid shots at them, they fell into the gutter with their motorbike and I sent my boys to get their rifles before we drove off.

“When we got to Coca-Cola junction, there was serious traffic and we decided to make a turn.

When we got to the spot where the policemen fell, we saw some people who were trying to help them and my boys opened fire on them again.

“We managed to make our way to Medical Road, close to Computer Village, but by then, the policemen there had received message of our operations and the moment they sighted us, they opened fire and damaged our tyres.

“We managed the tyres up to Capitol Road. There was traffic and I came out of my vehicle to clear the traffic and there was this Toyota Camry following us. I didn’t know that there was an armed mobile policeman in it.

When I returned I discovered that Kasali was struggling with the mobile policeman who was carrying a rifle.

“I fired some shots at the policeman. He attempted to run away, I chased him and killed him on the spot before picking his rifle. We snatched another vehicle and abandoned the Range Rover Sport before we escaped.”

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013—7

Property agent jailed 4 weeks for breach of trust

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Policeman arraigned for shooting 9-yr-old boy

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AGOS — A POLICEMAN, who allegedly shot and killed a nine-year-old boy while dispersing a mob, appeared before an Ebute-Meta Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos, , yesterday, on a charge of manslaughter.

Thirty-nine-year-old Rasak Alowonle is facing a count charge.

According to the prosecutor, Inspector Richard Odigie, the mob attempted to stop the accused from seizing a commercial bus.

Odigie told the court that the policeman committed the offence on June 13 at Mile 12, Ketu, Lagos.

The prosecutor said the accused and other members of his patrol team wanted to seize the bus from a driver who was obstructing traffic.

“The accused and his team tried to seize the commercial bus but the driver resisted,” he said.

Odigie submitted that the commotion drew the attention of a crowd that attacked the team with stones and broken bottles.

He said Alowonle shot a gun in an attempt to disperse the mob, and the bullet hit the boy.

Odigie said: “The victim’s parents and sister went to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja to pick up their eldest son, who arrived from Canada.

“The bullet went through the wind screen and hit the deceased, who was seated at the back seat, in his right eye.

“The deceased died on the spot but was rushed to a nearby hospital.”

He said that Alowonle, who was arrested by his colleagues, had been in police custody for the past four months.

According to Odigie, the offence contravenes Section 222 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty.

The Chief Magistrate, Mrs A. A. Demi-Ajayi, granted the accused bail in the sum of N500,000 with two sureties in like sum.

Demi-Ajayi adjourned the case to January15 for mention.

TOP MOST: Sympathisers at a compound belonging to victims of a

fresh attack on Rawuru-Fan village, Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area, Plateau State, yesterday. (INSET): Women weeping over their relatives killed during the attack on Doron village and ABOVE: Part of a building razed in Tatu village. PHOTOS: NAN.

2 female Immigration officers collapse on parade ground

BY AUSTIN OGWUDA

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SABA — TWO female offic ers of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Delta State Command, yesterday, slumped at the parade ground mounted to receive the newly posted Zonal Coordinator of Nigeria Immigration Service, Zone G, comprising Delta, Anambra, Edo, Bayelsa and Enugu States, Assistant Comptroller General Mohammed Shaibu.

The incident almost marred the colourful parade but the occasion continuedwhile the collapsed officers were carried out of the parade ground for medical attention.

They slumped one after the other while the Immigration Service boss was addressing the officers and men of the command at about noon.

Fielding questions from newsmen later, Shaibu said the service was collaborating with other sister agencies to ensure effective policing of the country’s borders and at the same time ensuring

close monitoring of foreigners flocking into the country.

Said he: “Definitely, the issue is of trying to checkmate the influx of non Nigerians and in doing this, we are also doing it consciously to ensure that whatever relationship we have with any country is not being threatened.

“We are collaborating with other security officers who are involved in border management. As a service, we work as a team to ensure that whatever border challenge that this country experiences is properly tackled collectively."

BUJA — AN FCT Chief Magistrates’ Court in Karu, yesterday, sentenced a 52-year-old property agent, Abdulazeez Saheed, to four weeks in prison for breach of trust and cheating.

The Chief Magistrate, Mrs Hadiza Shagari, sentenced Saheed after he pleaded guilty to a twocount charge filed against him by the police.

Shagari, however, gave him an option to pay a fine of N2,000.

She said: “Following the First Information Report (FIR) read to you and you admitted same, I hereby find you guilty as charged under sections 312 and 322 of the Penal Code.

“I am being lenient with my sentence because the accused had told the court that he has 10 children and recently lost his wife.

“Sending the convict to jail for a longer period will expose his innocent children to danger, which might affect their attitude in future.

“The accused should write an undertaking to the court that he will pay the compensation of N150,000 to the nominal complainant before December 30, as the amount paid to him for a self-contained room.”

Earlier, the prosecutor, Cpl Sham Simon, had told the court that one Abdulrasaf Kabitu paid N150,000 to the accused as an agent to a property under his care.

Simon said the amount was paid to the accused in November 2012 but he had refused to provide the room nor pay back the money to Kabiru.

Court dissolves 21-year-old marriage over wife’s infidelity

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SOGBO — A Grade III Customary Court in Osogbo, Osun State, yesterday, dissolved the 21-year-old marriage between one Joseph Akinola and Kudirat Akinola.

Akinola asked the court to dissolve the marriage, after accusing his wife of infidelity nd stubbornness.

He said: “My wife is in love with another man; I found his picture under her pillow, she was sleeping with his picture even when we were together.”

Akinola said his wife was in-

fluenced by a woman, Iya Shina, who was always inviting her to her residence.

HE said: “I know she was influenced by her friend, Iya Shina, who always invited my wife to her house.

“She was not like this when I married her; I met her as a virgin, so I am convinced she was influenced.

“Although we have three children, I pray the court to separate us since we have been leaving separately when she moved out of my house five years ago.”

Kudirat, however, told the court that what her husband said was true.

She said: “I got the picture he found with me from a photographer and it is true I am dating another man; if he wants us separated, I am ready to leave him.”

The president of the court, Chief Nasiru Odelola, dissolved the marriage, saying it was evident that the two no longer love each other.

8 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

BY CHRIS OCHAYI & SEBASTINE OBASI

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BUJA— AFTER several years of expectations, the Federal Government, yesterday, finally kicked off licensing bids for marginal oil fields, with 31 fields on offer.

Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke, who disclosed this at a media briefing in Abuja where she formerly flagged off the offer, said 16 of the fields are onshore, while the remaining 15 are on the continental shelf.

She said names and details of the fields will be available on the Directorate of Petroleum Resources, DPR's website.

The minister, however, advised companies interested in the offer to bid in consortia to enable them leverage on each other’s strengths.

Alison-Madueke: “Today, we are here to flag off the second marginal fields licensing round.

Over the next two weeks, the Department of Petroleum Resources will undertake a road show to different parts of the country about the programme.

“In carrying out this exercise, government is determined to ensure that proper technical and financial due diligence is done on companies that indicate interest in these assets.

“In this regard, government encourages companies, where possible, to bid in consortia, to enable the parties leverage upon each other’s strengths.

“Early in the life of this administration, the Nigerian Content Management Act was

FG BRIEFING ON ASUU: From left— Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Dr. MacJohn Nwabiala; Supervising Minister of Education, Mr. Nyesom Wike and Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission, NUC, Professor Julius Okojie, during a briefing on the ongoing Academic Staff Union of Universities strike in Abuja, yesterday.

FG kicks off second round of oil licensing zPuts 16 onshore, 15 continental fields on offer passed, and has significantly increased the participation of Nigerian companies in the supply of goods and services to the upstream sector of the industry.

“A completely revised and revamped version of the

Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, was put before the National Assembly for consideration and passage into law.

“While we await its passage into law, experts agree that one of the strong points in the Bill is the favourable provision for

small operating companies, some of which are already taking up the assets currently divested.”

In 2001...

Alison-Madueke recalled further that on August 31, 2001,

Buckingham varsity offers palliatives for Nigeria's energy crisis

BY CLIFFORD NDUJIHE

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O tackle socioeconomic and environmental challenges arising from oil exploration and production in Nigeria, the University of Buckingham, United Kingdom, will start organising annual workshops on energy extraction.

Making the disclosure in Lagos, Deputy Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Alistair Alcock and Mrs Hephzibah Egede, lecturer, Buckingham Law School, also urged Nigerians to take advantage of the extractive energy studies offered by the institution.

They spoke at a reception held by Nigerian alumni of the school at Lagos Motor Boat Club, Ikoyi, on Tuesday, as a lawyer, Mr. Anthony Idigbe (SAN), called for concerted efforts and support from international institutions to address challenges arising from mineral exploitation in Nigeria.

To be handled by the University of Buckingham Centre for Extractive Energy Studies, UBCEES, the energy studies programme will focus on: good governance in the extractive industry; energy exploitation and environmental regulation;

money laundering, offshore banking and asset recovery; indigenous rights and the energy sector; oil and gas carriage in international trade and maritime law; international oil and gas law and policy; energy taxation law; maritime insurance; energy competition law; and international labour rights in

the oil and gas industry.

Professor Alcock, who disclosed that the school had graduated about 700 Nigerians since inception in the late 70s and currently has about 100 Nigerian students, said Nigeria will benefit from the programme if more guidance was given and more researches conducted.

government announced the take off of the first marginal licensing round, which resulted in the allocation of 24 fields to 31 indigenous Nigerian companies.

She added that “about a decade thereafter, eight of these fields are producing while the others are in various stages of development.

“The successful companies currently contribute about one per cent to the nation’s daily production mix, while recording additional discoveries in excess of 100 million barrels to the nation’s reserve base.

“In their operations, the companies have addressed corporate social responsibility as a critical element by providing for stakeholder participation as part of their success factors.

Senate rejects Jonathan's nominee for FIRS chairman

BY JOHNBOSCO AGBAKWURU & JOSEPH ERUNKE

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BUJA— THE Senate, yesterday, turned down President Goodluck Jonathan’s request for the confirmation of Mrs. Mfon Akpan from Akwa Ibom State as chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Services, FIRS. Chairman of Senate Committee on Rules and Business, Senator Ita Enang said the President’s request would still be presented again as what the Senate did was

reject the nominee being referred to the appropriate senate committee to consider the request.

The rejection of the President’s request came on the heels of sustained plot by some senators in collaboration with some members of the House of Representatives to halt the confirmation of the acting Director-General of the National Pension Commission, Chinelo Anohu-Amazu, as substantive DG of the commission.

Consideration of Akpan’s nomination, which was listed

on the order paper, met stiff rejection immediately the Senate Leader, Victor NdomaEgba attempted to persuade the Senate to step down the request for another legislative day upon sensing danger that many of the Senators were already prepared to reject her nomination.

Ndoma-Egba’s motion that the item be stepped down for another legislative day was opposed by Senator Kabiru Marafa (APC, Zamfara Central), who initially acted as if he wanted to second the motion but raised a point of

order, citing Order 45 to support his position.

The Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremdu who presided over the plenary, ruled against Marafa’s order since he could not sustain his position.

Ndoma-Egba, representing the motion, moved that the Senate considers the presidential request by sending the nominee to the relevant committee for screening.

When put to voice votes, the nays far outnumbered the ayes, killing the motion eventually.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 — 9

...rule out House leadership change

VISIT: First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan (left) and Mrs Mary Ayen Mayardit, First Lady of South Sudan, during a courtersy visit to Dame Jonathan in Abuja.

Joining APC not solution to PDP crisis— LAMIDO zWe're not losing sleep— PDP

BY HENRY UMORU, UMAR YUSUF, EMMAN OVUAKPORIE, ALIYU DANGIDA & LEVINUS NWABUGHIOGU

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HE heat generated by the defection of five of the aggrieved G-7 Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governors to All Progressives Congress, APC, continued yesterday with one of the governors, Sule Lamido of Jigawa State, saying joining APC was not the solution to the crisis, and called for everyone to join hands in fighting impunity in the country.

Lamido, who did not defect to APC, spoke as the court reinstated National Secretary, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola said his expulsion by the national leadership of PDP would not stand even as the party said, yesterday, that it was not losing sleep over the defection of the five governors and leaders of the Alhaji Kawu Baraje-led new PDP. Meanwhile, Governor Murtala Nyako, who also decamped to APC, has asked his supporters to join the opposition party en mass, with PDP House of Representatives members saying they would wade into the crisis next week.

Lamido made the comments, yesterday, while receiving former Head of State, General Abdusalami Abubakar (rtd), who was in Dutse for the commissioning of Jigawa State Judicial Complex.

Lamido, Abdulsalami’s comments

Lamido told Abdulsalami, “the democracy you nurtured is today

being cannibalised. The present crises bedeviling the party for quite some time now will not augur well for the nascent democracy.

“The PDP crisis is a problem not only for the party; it can equally consume the whole nation.”

Responding, Abubakar said it had become necessary for Nigerians to fight for peace as no meaningful development could be achieved without peace.

Directing his supporters in Adamawa State to register en masse with the APC yesterday, Nyako said the opposition has good intentions for the state and the nation at large.

The directives came as PDP flags were being removed from public institutions across the state.

Nyako gave the directives yesterday at a meeting of stakeholders of APC and the nPDP at the Government House, Yola.

The governor said that PDP had betrayed the people of Adamawa in spite of all they did in ensuring PDP victories at all levels in the last general elections.

He described the plight of the people of Adamawa under PDP as that of Israelites under Pharaoh, necessitating their mass exodus.

The governor debunked insinuations that he was working for his son’s political ambition, saying his son will not contest any election in 2015.

Nyako said: “My son will not contest any election in 2015.

What we are doing is for peace, progress and unity of the state and the nation in general.

“The way PDP is operating in Adamawa is inimical to peace

and unity of the state.

“APC offered better opportunity with level playing field for everyone. There is no new comer or old member in APC, so go and mobilise your people to join the popular movement.”

PDP Reps to mediate

Apparently disturbed by the development, PDP Reps, yesterday, agreed in a meeting to interface with President Goodluck Jonathan on the way forward, next week.

In a closed-door meeting held at the Reps' wing of the National Assembly complex, they expressed disappointment in the manner the crisis was being handled and agreed that all the members would meet with Mr. President and bare their minds.

The meeting, which was chaired by the Deputy Speaker, Emeka Ihedioha, resolved to work as one large family and look issues dispassionately.

A front line member, who attended the meeting told Vanguard that “we have decided to work together as one.”

Asked whether it was both the PDP and nPDP Reps that met, he said, “Yes. We all met and there was no division of any sort. We met as one body.

“We are going to see Mr. President and tell him how we feel and how we intend to serve our fatherland without involving our members in whatever is happening outside the House.”

Another source said: “Those who are parading themselves as our representatives at the Presidential Villa are not selfless people. We have agreed to deal with Mr. President collectively.

Meanwhile, the House said yesterday that despite the defection of five nPDP governors, nothing will change in its leadership as no member has so far communicated to the leadership of his intention to move.

Deputy spokesman of the House, Mr. Victor Ogene (APGA, Anambra), said until such a time when members formally declare their intention, the House remains the way it is.

He said Section 68 (1) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, provides that members can only defect to another political party in group base on merger agreement, but that what was happening in PDP cannot be defined as such.

He said: “In politics, things like this happen. But as a House, we remain one. Section 68 (1) (g) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, says people cannot cross carpet in group except in merger situation.

“But defection has to do with individual member. So if they’re defecting, the proper thing must be done by activating that section of the constitution.

“As at now, we are not aware of any member defecting to another party. Remember, going by our rule, until a party has 181 members, you can’t talk of having the majority.”

Oyinlola reacts

Also yesterday, Oyinlola said that his expulsion from the party as recommended to the party's NWC by Alhaji Umaru Dikkoled Disciplinary Committee would not stand.

In a statement by his Principal Secretary, Femi Adelegan, Oyinlola, who noted that democracy was on trial, said: “The recommendations of the committee will not stand, as nobody can build something on nothing; and falsehood on truth.

“The committee does not exist because its composition was not ratified by the National Executive Committee of PDP, which is statutorily empowered to approve the composition of the body.

“They really worked with great speed in their feverish ambition of getting rid of Oyinlola before the hearing of his suit at an Abuja Federal High Court, challenging the validity of illegalities.

“No sane or decent person would be surprised at the recommendations of the illegally constituted Disciplinary Committee, which from the outset shouldered a heavy burden of legitimacy, integrity, lack of respect for fair play, principles of natural justice and the Rule of Law.”

Cross carpeting of disloyal elements, not merger— PDP

The national leadership of PDP, yesterday, took a swipe at the five governors and some

members who defected to the APC, saying it was not a merger, but an opportunistic cross carpeting of disloyal elements, reiterating that as a party it would not lose sleep over the action.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Chief Olisa Metuh, PDP said a tree that is pruned blossoms the more.

It added that there was no way the fusion of Alhaji Abubakar Kawu Baraje-led splinter group of PDP into APC could be described as merger because the group was never a party, adding that the Bamanga Tukur-led NWC stands as the only PDP known to law.

Metuh said: “Our attention has been drawn to press reports and statements from some persons passing off the cross carpeting of a group of former PDP members to APC as a merger.

“This information is false and is intended to mislead the public.

What happened was not a merger. You can only talk of a merger where there were two distinct parties.

“In this case, there is only one party, APC. The so-called nPDP was never a party. This was established on October 10, when a Lagos High Court gave judgment against then PDP and on October 11, when the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, wrote the nPDP to say that the Alhaji Bamanga Tukur-led PDP is the only recognised party by that name.”

A sad devt— Anenih

Meanwhile, Chairman of PDP Board of Trustees, BoT, Chief Tony Anenih, yesterday, described the move of the five governors as sad and urged members of the party not to be moved or disturbed by it.

Chief Anenih expressed satisfaction that the party leadership, President Jonathan, former president Olusegun Obasanjo and Ibrahim Babangida, former National Chairmen, Barnabas Gemade and Ahmadu Ali as well as himself “invested enough energy, commitment, maturity and sincerity in the collective effort at reconciliation.

“I had expected the governors to stay on in the party, which has offered them a unique opportunity to serve their people.

“Surprisingly, they decided to abandon their home and platform to take up tenancy in an opposition party even when it was apparent that the effort of Mr. President for genuine reconciliation was enough for them to see good reason to show restraint and understanding. However, as adults, the final decision was and remains theirs.

“I would like to urge our party members and sympathizers not to be disturbed by the exit of some of our governors but to continue to mobilize grassroots support for our party, Mr. President, and his Transformation Agenda.”

10 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

Malaysian Exim Bank supports Ogun

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HE INFRASTRUCTURE development initiative of the Ogun State Government has received the support of the Export-Import Bank of Malaysia, as the institution has agreed to facilitate Malaysian contractors who are interested to take up construction jobs in the state.

Chief Operating Officer of Exim Bank, Wan Zalizan Wan Jusoh said this while speaking with reporters after a luncheon, aimed at facilitating productive business dialogue between Malaysian business community and the team led by Governor Ibikunle Amosun.

We're restoring Oyo civil service — Ajimobi

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OVERNOR ABIOLA Ajimobi of Oyo State has said that his administration's commitment to the restoration of the lost glory of the state civil service remains sacrosanct.

This, he said, was aimed at achieving professionalism, a well motivated workforce, highly skilled, intelligent and articulate staff across cadres; honest, corruption-free and ICT-driven workforce with vast knowledge of global best practices.

Evans Medical Plc wins 2013 Pearl Award

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VANS MEDICAL Plc, a top pharmaceutical and healthcare provider has emerged as one of the winners of the Nigerian Stock Market driven Pearl Aaward for 2013.

Evans Medical was nominated alongside two other quoted companies for market excellence award, particularly in the area of dividend cover.

Receiving the award, Group Managing Director, Chief Olubunmi Olaopa noted that the recognition of the company by the Pearl Awards is acknowledgement of the resilience of the management and staff, backed by shareholders' support.

I'm ready to work with Oni, others — Fayemi

BY GBENGA ARIYIBI

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DO EKITI — EKITI State governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has expressed readiness to work with all the members of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, that are moving to the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state including the former governor Segun Oni. Fayemi, who was apparently commenting on the successful consummation of talk between the nPDP and APC, said he was ready to work with all progressives who are ready to wrest power from the PDP. He pointed out that he had always seen Oni as a progressive politician, going by his antecedents as a founding member of the Advanced Congress of Democrats and Action Congress of Nigeria during the battle to wrest power from the former Governor Ayodele Fayose.

He was speaking at Erinmope Ekiti, in Moba Local Government Area, during the continuation of his tour of all the towns and villages in the state.

Oni had been having a frosty

relationship with Alhaji Bamanga Tukur-led PDP following his removal as the National Vice Chairman, Southwest, and he had slammed the party with series of suits over his removal.

On whether he would be ready to embrace Oni and other aggrieved members of the PDP, Fayemi said he was ready to work with all right thinking and progressive politicians to bail out Nigerians from the PDP

government at the federal level.

"If you know the political antecedents of former Governor Segun Oni, you will know that he has always been a member of this party. He has always been a progressive," he said.

BIRTHDAY: From left, Chief Bisi Akande, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Princess Patience Ikusebiala, the celebrant; Lagos State governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola; his wife, Mrs. Abimbola Fashola, and Hon. Lola Akande, during 80th birthday ceremony of the mother of Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at K&G Event Centre, Oregun,Ikeja,Lagos, yesterday.

Fashola slams FG over N2.3tn missing oil subsidy

BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI & MONSUR OLOWOOPEJO

L

AGOS — GOVERNOR Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, yesterday, slammed the Federal Government over the mismanagement of N2.3 trillion allegedly missing oil subsidy funds from the Federation Account, saying such fund would construct 80 Lekki link bridges across the country.

This came barely few weeks after Governor Rotimi Amaechi of River State alleged that $5 billion was missing from the Excess Crude Account, ECA. Fashola made the remarks at the 7th Town Hall Meeting on security, entitled, 'Sustaining

Local Response To Rising National Security Challenges,' on Victoria Island, Eti-Osa Local Government Area, which also had in attendance Special Adviser to the President on Media, Dr. Rueben Abati; Chief Molade Okoya-Thomas, among others.

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos Command, Mr. Umar Mankko, who spoke on the continuous detention of Abiodun Ebenezer Ogunjobi, a.k.a Godogodo, explained that the notorious armed robber was still being

interrogated to garner more facts.

Mankko, while speaking on the activities of the police in preventing crimes in Lagos, said that the intervention of the fund had helped to reduce armed robberies to 54 cases in the last one year.

Mile 2- Badagry Expressway for closure

BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI

L

AGOS — THE Lagos State Government has announced planned closure of the Mile 2, Lagos - Badagry Expressway to traffic, Sunday December 1, 2013, to allow for the on-going construction work on the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Project.

Commissioner for

Transportation, Mr. Kayode Opeifa, who announced the planned closure said the measure was to allow for the installation of the pedestrian bridge beam at Mile 2 Lagos rail mass transit station, spanning across the expressway.

The state government had earlier closed the road on October 20, 2013 in the first phase to carry

RCCG celebrates 'Let Somebody Shout Halleluyah' anniversary

BY LAMIDI BAMIDELE

THE REDEEMED Christian Church of God, Milk and Honey family, is holding 10th anniversary of 'Let Somebody Shout Halleluyah.'

The church has lined up many activities to make the anniversary, between Wednesday, November 27 to Sunday December 1, an exciting one.

According to Pastor Wale Adeduro, the pastor in Charge of the church, the 10th year anniversary is to thank God and to give back to the community with such activities as health talk, medical check up and provision of medical treatment where necessary.

"It is a weekend of grace to thank God and to give back to the community. We started with praise on Wednesday morning followed by medical check up.

"Tomorrow, Novelty match will take place at Anthony playing ground, followed by visit to motherless babies' home with gifts.

Pastor Adeduro gave insight to the award ceremony coming up Sunday morning for "distinguished Nigerians living around Anthony, Ojota, Ikeja which are the catchment areas of the church.

According to Pastor Adeduro, "Mr. Sam Amuka, Publisher of Vanguard Newspapers is among the awardees."

out similar work on the project.

According to Opeifa, the beam launch would leave an impact on the traffic flow on the Badagry bound carriageway and traffic from Apapa - Oshodi Expressway linking the Lagos - Badagry Expressway.

He explained that traffic during the duration of the launch will be limited from 7a.m. to 12noon.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013—11

400,000 people live with HIV/ AIDS in Ogun

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BEOKUTA — NO fewer than 400,000 people were said to be living with HIV/AIDS in Ogun State.

It was allegedly caused by poverty, low literacy level, low use of condom, risky sexual behaviour and stigma and discrimination.

The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Olaokun Soyinka stated this at a press conference entitled, 'Getting to Zero: Take Charge of Your Life; Know Your HIV Status,' yesterday in Abeokuta to mark the world HIV/AIDS Day.

Ondo radio station, not for propaganda — Mimiko

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KURE — GOVERNOR Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State, yesterday, clarified that the establishment of a new Radio FM station in the state was not for government political propaganda.

He said this in Akure during the inauguration the ORANGE 94.5 FM, a radio station in the state.

Dr Mimiko said that about 30 years ago, the ground was first broken for the location of a radio station.

Staff lock out NACETEM boss

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KURE — THE Academic Staff Union of Research institutions, ASURI, in the National Centre for Technology Management, NACETEM, have locked out the acting Director General, Yusuf Muhammad in protest against his appointment.

They vowed to continue the protests against the proposed appointment of Muhammad as acting Director General of the agency until the decision is rescinded.

Staffers of the agency, who equally embarked on a sit-in protest, alleged that his choice to head the agency did “not meet the prerequisites of the research institute."

According to them the Acting DG has no letter from the Minister appointing him to occupy the position.

Obasanjo, Tinubu reconciliation postponed famous critics of former President Obasanjo and who had been on opposite political side with the former president had ironically been slated to be a launcher of the book, 'Obasanjo: President of Presidents.' The book written by Paul Adebayo Oni was to be launched in Obasanjo's Presidential Library, yesterday.

The launching of the book was deferred upon the failure of

President Obasanjo to return from an international trip.

Oni, the author of the book told Vanguard on phone, yesterday, that, Chief Obasanjo could not make it to Nigeria from overseas.

When asked when the programme would hold again, he said: "Not until Baba comes back and we sit down and choose another date, I may not be able to say much on it."

The launch of the book had been heralded with much publicity especially in Abeokuta BEOKUTA — with announcements on radio.

PROSPECTS of a Tinubu and Obasanjo have political convergence between not been seen together in public former President Olusegun since they left office in 2007 and Obasanjo and former Lagos even before then, both men State governor, Asiwaju Bola rarely graced the same public Tinubu were put on hold, functions having fallen out on yesterday, after the public issues including the creation of launch of a book on the former additional local governments in president was put on hold.

Lagos State.

Tinubu, one of the most President Obasanjo caused the seizure of local government funds earmarked for Lagos State following the creation of the additional local governments by Lagos State.

Besides Tinubu, others expected to have co-launched the book were Governors Sule Lamido and Godswill Akpabio of Jigawa and Akwa Ibom states respectively.

President Goodluck Jonathan was also invited as grand guest of honour while former military heads of state, Generals Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, Muhammad Buhari and AbdulSalami Abubakar; former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar; Senate President, David Mark and Speaker of House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal were special guests INSPECTION: Osun State governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; Group Managing Director, of honour.

Odua Investment Company, Alhaji Adebayo Jimoh (right) and others, during inspection of Governor Ibikunle Amosun of farm produce, during the graduation ceremony of Osun-Odua Farmers Academy, at Ede in Ogun State was to act as chief Osun State. host.

BY DAUD OLATUNJI

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Attack on school principal: Aregbesola warns against recurrence

BY GBENGA OLARINOYE

O

SOGBO — OSUN State governor, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola, yesterday, declared that his administration will not tolerate any act of lawlessness

from any group or individuals irrespective of their standing in the society.

Aregbesola made this disclosure during the graduation of 410 Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme, O’YES, cadets trained at

Osun APC protests Anambra guber poll

BY GBENGA OLARINOYE

O

SOGBO — MEMBERS of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in Osun State yesterday, staged a peaceful demonstration in Osogbo against the conduct of November 16 governorship election in Anambra State declared inconclussive by Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC. The party members from all the 30 local government areas in the state carrying placards with various inscriptions matched through the major streets in the state capital before they converged at Freedom Park where Governor Rauf Aregbesola later addressed

them.

The APC members, who were apparently worried by what they described as poor conduct of Anambra election by INEC, said the electoral body failed woefully in the conduct of the poll.

Led by the interim state chairman of the party, Mr. Adelowo Adebiyi, the protesting members of the party numbering about 3,000 called for the cancellation of the election.

The aggrieved APC members, who later moved to the INEC office on Gbongan/Ibadan Road, Osogbo, delivered a protest letter to the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in the state for INEC chairman Professor Attahiru Jega.

the OSUN-ODU’A Farmer ’s Academy at Ede. Aregbesola, who described the attack on the Principal of Ejigbo School of Science as unacceptable, noted that no one is allowed by the constitution to take laws into one's hands.

He stressed that henceforth the government will not treat such cases with kid gloves, saying that anyone caught with such uncivilised act will be made to face the law.

Speaking to the graduates, the governor said his administration’s involvement of youths in agricultural enterprises was another way his administration was tackling the menace of youth unemployment.

The graduation ceremony, he noted, was an opportunity to hoist aloft for all to see the "fruits of responsive and responsible governance that only the healthy tree of focused and visionary leadership can yield."

ASUU strike: Ekiti students seek divine intervention

BY GBENGAARIYIBI

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DO EKITI — STUDENTS of Ekiti State origin in tertiary institutions embarked on marathon prayers to seek divine intervention in the five- month old strike by the members of the Academic Staff Union of Nigerian Universities, ASUU. The students, who were drawn from the various institutions of higher learning converged at Lady Jibowu Hall, Ekiti Government House where they held the prayer session

The session had in attendance, the state’s Deputy Governor, Professor Modupe Adelabu and some clerics. Adelabu in her remarks cautioned the students against taking to the streets and engaging in illegal acts that could lead to violence and disruption of peace in the state.

She noted that they did the right thing by taking their petition to God. She said it was unfortunate that both parties to the dispute ASUU and the Federal Government - had remained adamant despite interventions from well-meaning Nigerians.

12—Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

Delta bemoans inability to monitor state’s oil, gas production outputs

BY AUSTIN OGWUDA

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SABA—DELTA State Government has expressed regret over its inability to ascertain the actual revenue due it from the Federation Account by verifying the oil and gas production outputs from the state, saying that the excuse from internal oil companies that such responsibility rests squarely with the Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR, was frustrating.

State Commissioner in charge of the Ministry of Oil and Gas, Mr. Omamofe Pirah, in Asaba, yesterday, when he took turn to brief the media on the activities of his ministry, said: “One of the functions of this ministry is to implement an independent system for the monitoring and verification of crude oil and gas production outputs in the state. The function is in realisation of the fact that the state needs an organ of its own, dedicated to the verification, compilation and storage of production records so as to determine revenues

due it from the Federation Account, boost its employment levels and the economy in general.

“Steady efforts are being made to obtain requisite data on crude oil and gas production in the state. This progress is, however, being retarded by the opposition of international oil companies, IOCs, to the ministry’s effort in this regard on the ground that oil and gas exploration/exploitation is under the Exclusive Legislative List of the Federal Government and therefore, monitoring of production figure is a function of the Department of Petroleum Resources, DPR. “In order to relieve the situation, the ministry has made feasible and appropriate recommendation to government.

For now, the ministry’s monitoring effort is limited to indigenous oil and gas companies and marginal field operators.”

He added that the Ogidigben Export Processing Zone, EPZ, an initiative of the Federal Government through the

Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, NNPC, in collaboration with the Delta State Government domiciled in Ogidigben, in Warri South-West Local Government Area of the state, worth

B

ENIN—THE Joint Action Committee of Edo State Hospitals Management Board, yesterday, issued a 21-day ultimatum to the state government to implement fully, the approved salary scale of CONMESS and CONHESS, for health workers in the state, failing which they will down tools.

The workers also demanded the immediate release of the 2011 and 2012 promotions for health workers and the employment of qualified health workers with a view to addressing the manpower shortage in health institutions in the state.

Chairman of JAC, Dr. Eighemhenrio Paul and Secretary, Omage John, who addressed newsmen in Benin City, said that the urgent implementation of CONMESS and CONHESS for health workers in the state would effectively address the problems of parallel brain drain of health professionals from the employment of the state government to other states and federal institutions.

Commending Governor

Adam Oshiomhole for being what they described as the “architect of modern Edo State,” they pointed out that the “health sector deserves better attention. Our conscience will not forgive us if we remain silent while our patients groan in pains.

“Arising from our congress, health workers have issued 21 days ultimatum to the Edo State Government to ameliorate the suffering of our patients and salvage the health sector. Our commitment to serve our patients is not negotiable,” they said.

CNS commissions projects in Delta

BY GODWIN OGHRE

S

APELE— CHIEF of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Dele Ezeoba, yesterday, commissioned the first Nigerian Engine Room Stimulation Training Centre, at the College, Ogorode-Sapele, Delta State.

Ezeoba told newsmen that the Engine Room Stimulation Centre was the first of its kind in Nigeria, adding that it would serve as a training centre for Naval trainees, expected to operate all Nigerian Naval ships across the country, with the aim of training them to be abreast of the necessary technical knowledge of how to work and operate any Naval Ship.

The Engine Room Stimulation, according to him, was devised and funded

by the Federal Government with the aim of training Naval officers and ratings on modern techniques of checkmating terrorism, oil theft and all forms of economic sabotaging on Nigeria’s waterways.

Passage

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and about 5,000 housing units. This will create employment and bring massive development to the region, the state and the country at large.

As we speak, bush clearing is about to begin.”

PUBLIC PRESENTATION: From left: Mr. Aminu Tambuwal, Speaker, House of Representatives; Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State; Gen. Yakubu Gowon, fomer Head of State and HRH Prince Eheneden Erediauwa, Crown Prince of Benin Kingdom, at the public presentation of Cradle of Ideas, a compendium of speeches and writings of Oba Erediauwa of Benin Kingdom, in Benin City, yesterday.

Edo Health workers issue 21 days ultimatum to govt

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

about $20 billion, was in progress.

“The Ogidigben EPZ will consist of gas hub, a petrochemical plant, methanol plant, fertilizer plant, a seaport, five start hotels, banks

ADAM Alice Obayangbon is dead, aged 85.

The family in a statement by Mr John Ahon and Mrs Margaret Agban, said funeral service, interment and entertainment of guests will hold today at Ekrerhavwen-Agbarho, Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State.

The late Madam Obayangbon is survived by three children, 16 grand children and eight great-grand children.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 — 13

FEDPOLY Gov Council vows to ensure accreditation of courses

Integrate traditional institutions into Constitution —GOWON, TAMBUWAL

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

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ENIN—FORMER Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, yesterday, called for the accommodation of traditional institutions in the country’s constitution.

They made the call in Benin City, Edo State, during the presentation of a book by the Oba of Benin, entitled Cradle of Ideas, a compendium of speeches and writings of Oba Erediauwa of Benin Kingdom. Over N200 million was realised from the book presentation.

Gen. Gowon, who chaired the event, noted that a role for traditional rulers in the constitution would enable the country to tap from the knowledge of the custodians of our culture and insulate them from politics, saying that his administration benefitted from engaging traditional rulers on key matters on nation-building, which, according to him, helped to stabilise the polity.

Speaker Tambuwal, who spoke through the Minority Whip of the House, Mr. Samson Osagie, recommended the book to all, describing the Oba as one of the most outstanding and revered traditional rulers in the country.

Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who was chief host of the event, described Oba Erediauwa as Nigeria’s most principled father of his generation.

Presenting the book, Nobel Laureate, Prof.

Wole Soyinka, said that he shared two things with the Oba of Benin Government College, Ibadan, which both of them attended, and the Oba’s view that Benin stolen arts would be returned if the British authorities, who looted them were approached appropriately.

CALL TO BAR: Secretary to the State Government, Delta State, Comrade Ovuozourie Macaulay (left), and Mr. Tim Owhefere, shortly after the latter was called to Bar in Abuja.

Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan.

OBIO/AKPOR: Appeal Court berates Justice Iyayi-Lamikaran over judgment

BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME

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ORT HARCOURT— THE Court of Appeal in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, yesterday, berated Justice Adama Iyayi-Lamikaran, of a Rivers State High Court, for going ahead to deliver judgment in the suit by Timothy Nsirim, suspended Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the state, even though an appeal by the Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, was pending before it (Court of Appeal), seeking to stay proceedings in the matter.

Justice Mohammed Tsamiya of the appellate court, who adjourned the case sine die, said it would be unnecessary to rule on the application because any verdict on the issue would merely be an academic exercise, since the judge of the state High Court had gone ahead to give verdict on the issue, which Amaechi had

sought to stay.

The appellate court said that the trial judge disobeyed an earlier directive from the appellant court, noting that same was a bad precedence.

“Today (yesterday), our ruling is ready, and we are ready to deliver the said ruling, only to be informed by counsel to the appellant/applicant that the same judge of trial court hurriedly delivered the final judgment in the matter, without waiting on the ruling of this court.

“We were also told by the learned SAN, Mr. B.I. Nwofor, that none of the respondents was served with hearing notice on the judgment delivered. Worst of all, we were told that the judgment was read with rechargeable lantern to show how desperate the trial judge was.

“Get it now, the ruling of this appellant court has been rendered nugatory by the trial

court presided over by the same judge. Although we have painstakingly written the ruling, we can no longer deliver it. This is an unfortunate event and gross disrespect to a higher court, because in our jurisprudence, once an appellant is entered, the lower court ought not to continue until the appellant court determines it.

“It is desirable to do so and not to render the decision of superior court a mere academic exercise,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has applauded the decision of the Appeal Court Justices on the issue, saying it was in order.

A statement by the factional Chairman of the party, Mr. Felix Obua, said that the position of the Justices of the appellate court justified the judgment of the trial court ,which reinstated the suspended chairman of Obio Akpor council and the 17 councillors.

Groups must seek approval for was recommended by the processions —RIVERS CP heInspector General of Police.

BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME

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ORT HARCOURT—RIVERS State Police Commissioner, Mr. Joseph Mbu, has urged groups wanting to embark on street processions or protests in the state to endeavour to seek his approval.

Dismissing insinuations in some quarters that he was biased to have allowed Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state, led by Mr. Felix Obuah, to embark on a procession on Wednesday on Aba Road, the Commissioner, who spoke to

newsmen in his office in Port Harcourt, yesterday, said that the party sought his approval before embarking on the protest.

He said that the Police never disallowed peaceful protests in the state, adding that the Inspector General of Police only directed that all protests must enjoy the approval of the state Police Commissioner.

Mbu, who displayed an award he bagged as the best crime bursting Police Chief in West Africa, at a programme in South Africa, recently, said

He said that his command recently arrested 97 robbery suspects and 46 kidnap suspects, adding that three robbers were shot dead during an encounter with his men.

He said that his command was poised to reduce crime to the barest minimum in the state during the yuletide season, saying “Because of the ember months, we are meeting weekly now to review strategies. Any former militant caught carrying weapons will be treated as an armed robber or cultist. So be warned.”

ENAGOA—THE Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Ekowe, in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, yesterday, said its policy focus remains to ensure that more academic programmes were accredited for the institution by the National Board for Technical Education, NBTE. Chairman of the council, Mr. Bekeakpo Etifa, who spoke to newsmen after its inaugural meeting, said that the policy was anchored on the fact that the institution has the requisite infrastructure and laboratory equipment for Engineering and Science programmers.

Etifa said that the policy was also aimed at ensuring an increase in students intake and promote qualitative academic activities, explaining that since the school was a federal institution, efforts would be geared towards giving it a national outlook in terms of admission and its operations.

He commended the Rector, Dr. Ineye Ekpebu and his management team for their pragmatic and visionary leadership style, which according to him, had brought about the high standard of infrastructure and academic staff, stressing that its priority would be to strengthen the management to achieve its core mandate.

In a separate interview, the Rector, Dr. Ekpebu, expressed optimism that with the positive stance of the new Governing Council, the Polytechnic Ekowe would move to greater heights.

Dr Ekpebu said that some of the challenges faced by the institution would be surmounted with the inauguration of the second Governing Council since the establishment of the institution four years ago.

14 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

409 Nigerians serving jail terms in South Africa

BY OLASUNKANMI

AKONI AGOS—THE House of Representatives, yesterday, has condemned the illtreatment and discrimination against Nigerians living in South Africa, stressing that at least more than 409 were currently serving jail terms in the country.

Chairman of the House Committee on Diaspora, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, disclosed this in a statement issued after the committee’s visit to two prisons in South Africa.

She described the increasing number of Nigerians in foreign prisons as “ridiculously embarrassing.”

Dabiri-Erewa, representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency in Lagos State, who visited the prisons alongside two members of the committee, Ajibola Famurewa and Umaru Shidanfi, consular officers of the Nigerian Embassy and executives of the Nigerian Union in South Africa, disclosed that over 400,000 Nigerians were currently living in South Africa.

However, during her interaction with some inmates, the lawmaker explained that some of them confessed that they had been denied their freedom, despite completing their jail terms.

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Noah’s pudding

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FUK DIALOGUE foundation, an organisation focused on creating and strengthening dialogue between different faiths and cultures for mutual understanding is using a mutual ground in various religions to unite people.

According to the group, Prophet Noah who is accepted by many faiths built an ark which was inhabited by those who believed in his faith and a pair of each species of animal.

The food believed to have been eaten on the ark was made from combining different scraps of food to make a delicious delight we call “Noah’s Pudding” today.

Noah’s pudding will be available to all our guests at the event that will take place at Millennium Park / Abuja on Saturday, November 30, by 3.30p.m.

ANAMBRA ELECTION: Ekwunife withdraws suit against Obiano zSays ‘I have been under intense pressure from the church, monarchs, others’

BY VINCENT UJUMADU

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WKA—BARELY four hours after explaining her reasons for dragging the governorship candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Chief Willie Obiano to the Federal High Court over alleged double registration, Mrs. Uche Ekwunife, who came second at the party’s primaries said she has withdrawn the suit following pressures from many quarters.

According to her, “I have been under intense pressure from the church, traditional rulers, wellwishers and family members to withdraw the suit and I am therefore withdrawing the matter from court.”

Ekwunife said she had already instructed her lawyers to file the necessary papers to withdraw the suit and reaffirmed her loyalty to Governor Peter Obi, the national chairman of APGA, Chief Victor Umeh, and the entire leadership of the party.

She had earlier in a statement yesterday said her going to court was not done in bad faith, adding that her action was to save the party from losing out completely.

Her words: “It was not done in bad faith, but to ensure the survival of the party in the likely event of the suits filed by some members of opposing parties against Obiano succeeding.

“If Obiano is declared winner of the election after the supplementary poll, the matter would become a post-election issue which would then be between Obiano and other

political parties.

“It would be hypocritical of anyone to pretend that there were no suits filed against Obiano.”

Insisting that the matter should not be approached with sentiments, Ekwunife, who collapsed her structure into the Obiano campaign structure during the campaign, said her action was purely a precautionary one aimed at giving the party a second option should anything untoward happen in court.

She also described her action as a great sacrifice she was

making to preserve the party and not just a personal ambition.

According to her, many legal luminaries have acceded to her legal position which they held to be the correct position in law.

Ekwunife expressed her respect for the governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, and the party leadership.

But the national chairman of APGA, Chief Victor Umeh said what Ekwunife did was unacceptable to the party and wondered what she stood to gain knowing very well that her action was an exercise in

futility because Obiano never committed the said offence.

Umeh said: “Ekwunife wanted to be governor and she did not get it. She wanted to be deputy governor and did not get it for obvious reasons.

“That was not the reason she should be desperate and there is no basis for her action.

“She is bringing her political career into disrepute. This is somebody who contested against Governor Obi in 2010 and after that, she came into APGA and we accepted her and gave her ticket for House of Representatives. “

ANNIVERSARY: From left: Pastor Funmi Ayo-Odugbesan, Pastor Sanya Kolajo from Ondo State and Pastor Wale Adeduro, pastor-in-charge, RCCG Milk and Honey Family, Mende, Maryland, during the Church's 10th anniversary of 'Let Somebody Shout Halleluyah' in Lagos. Photo: Lamidi Bamidele.

Okpara varsity vs host communities: Abia House asks govt to acquire land within one year

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BY ANAYO OKOLI

MUAHIA—IN a bid to resolve the lingering land dispute between Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike and one of its host communities, Amaoba Ime, Abia State House of Assembly has passed a resolution urging the government to properly acquire the eight hectares of land in dispute.

The House urged the government to do this within one year and warned the parties to the dispute to steer clear of the land until the matter was resolved.

The resolution of the House followed the consideration and adoption of the recommendation of the committee on security and Boundary Matters.

The House also resolved that both the community and university should steer clear of the disputed area of the land until full compensation for the land was paid

It also urged the host communities to live in peace with the university to be able to develop the area.

The community and the university had been locked in land dispute which has disrupted part of the university’s development plan.

The issue in contention is eight hectares of land which the

community accused the university’s management of taking forcefully from them without due process.

The community claims that it donated a total of 171.1 hectares of land to the university, while the university claims the community gave 179 hectares.

It alleged that the university had fraudulently adjusted the

boundary and had encroached on its land, with the dispute getting to a crisis stage which prompted restive youths in the area to threaten violent action against the university.

In the heat of the crisis, the community petitioned the House of Assembly which referred the matter to its relevant committee which visited the land in dispute.

Chime promises electricity for Enugu communities in 2015

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BY TONY EDIKE

NUGU—THE Enugu State government plans to provide electricity to the few remaining communities in the state yet to be electrified before the end of its tenure in May 2015.

Governor Sullivan Chime stated this in an address at a workshop on community administration organised for

councillors, Area Administration Town Union Presidents and other stakeholders in the state at Nike Lake Resort Hotels, Enugu.

Chime, who was represented by the Chief of Staff, Government House Enugu, Mrs. Ifeoma Nwobodo restated the administration’s commitment to providing the people with the essential amenities that would help make

life better for them.

He noted that the workshop was organised to enable government know the position of the distribution of social amenities to communities in the state with a view to addressing any imbalance and other areas of needs.

According to the governor, government has done much in the provision of social amenities to the people, adding that there are still needs for improvement.

Vanguard , FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 —15

APC LEADERS AND MEMBERS PROTEST AGAINST ANAMBRA ELECTION IN ABUJA, YESTERDAY. PIX: GBEMIGA OLAMIKAN

All Progressives Congress, APC, chieftain, General Muhammadu Buhari being hailed by supporters.

From left: Chief Ogbonnaya Onu, All Progressives Congress, APC, National Chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, former Head of State, General Muhammadu Buhari and APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, at the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Headquarters, Maitama, Abuja, during a protest for the cancellation of the November 16, Anambra State governorship election, in Abuja.

The banner says it all.

THE APC PROTEST IN OSOGBO

Policemen keeping watch during the protest.

Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State (middle), state Acting Secretary of All Progressives Congress, APC, Prince Gboyega Famodun (4th left), Acting Chairman, Elder Adebiyi Adelowo (5th left), Lagos State APC chieftain, Mr. Toyin Ogunjinmi (4th right) and others, protesting against the proposed supplementary election in Anambra State, in Osogbo, yesterday.

APC members at the protest ground.

Gov. Rauf Aregbesola leading party faithful during the protest.

16—Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

From left— Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State; Mr. Remi Makanjuola, Chairman, Board of Trustee, Lagos State Security Trust Fund; Miss Nonny Ugboma, Executive Secretary, MTN Foundation; Mr. Joseph Ajilore, Executive General Manager, Total E&P Nig. Ltd. and Mr. Davidson Regha, Group Head, Covory Banking, Heritage Bank, at the 7th annual town hall meeting on security, on the theme Sustaining Local Responses to Rising National Security Challenges in Lagos State, yesterday. PHOTOS: Bunmi Azeez.

From left— Justice Ishola Olorunnibe (rtd.); Mr. Jokotade Pelumi, former Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly; Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi and Alhaji Musliu Smith, for Inspector-General of Police.

From left— Erelu Abiola Dosumu; Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Lagos State Commandant, and Major Tunde Panox, Security Adviser to Governor Fashola.

From left— Sheik Abdulrahman Ahmad, Chief Missioner Ansarudeen; Sheik Abdulafiz Abou, Baba Adini of Lagos and Mr. Youssef Fattal.

Lt. Col. A. L. Okpodu (left) and Mr. Umar Manko, Lagos State Commissioner of Police.

Infrastructure master plan to gulp $3.9trn

BY PETER EGWUATU

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HE Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, yesterday, disclosed that the country ’s infrastructure master plan has been estimated to cost $3.9 trillion over the next 30 years, just as it raised alarm over the rising unclaimed dividends in the nation’s capital market, which has risen to over N60 billion.

Chairman of SEC, Mallam Suleyman Ndanusa, decried the issue of unclaimed dividends which he said had grown to between N40 billion and over N60 billion.

Speaking at the third annual Capital Market Committee, CMC, retreat in Abuja, Ndanusa recalled that the leadership of SEC attempted to address the issue of unclaimed dividends, which

was about N8 billion some years ago, regretting that today the amount had grown to about N60 billion.

He said: “One of the challenges that we still have today, which I am going to leave for the CMC is the issue of unclaimed dividends.

“The CMC, under the leadership of SEC, attempted to address the issue of unclaimed dividends which was about N8 billion some years ago, but today has grown to between N40 and N60 billion, to be very conservative.

“This is still a work in progress for CMC, but there are more and more things that have to be done and achieved in the market through the CMC. “I am proud to say that what we started very humbly a few years ago is now going world class.”

Ndanusa advocated the need to evolve comprehensive measures to strengthen, broaden and deepen the market to enhance intermediary role in financing economic development.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 —17

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AST week, I told you that all that I and most Rivers People I knew wanted for Christmas was for our President and our Governor to patch up their quarrel.

Well, it has now become obvious that this wish is not going to be fulfilled. And I am grief-stricken to the point of tearful about the fact that Amaechi walked out of Jonathan’s party on Tuesday and officially joined forces with his enemies.

I guess that dreams hardly ever come true.

•President Goodluck Jonathan

A sad end to a sad story

Postscript

I need to counter my own claim (the Christmas comment above) because it was, on reflection, a gross exaggeration that came about because I was feeling particularly sorrowful and sentimental about the Jonathan/Amaechi rift.

At the risk of sounding frivolous, let me backtrack and lighten up and say that I and most of the Rivers People I know would, in addition to a Jonathan/Amaechi reconciliation, like lots of other more concrete Christmas gifts!

If Vanguard readers tell me what is on their wish-lists, I will reveal the contents of mine.

Dreams hardly ever come true, but there’s no harm in occasionally fantasizing about ways in which one’s existence can be improved.

Especially at a time when Nigerians don’t have much cause for celebration.

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one I talk to thinks that you are very rich because you get millions from VIPs to either sing their praises in your column or to stop mentioning their weaknesses and mistakes.”

I find this allegation distressing as well as infuriating because I would never make positive remarks about anyone important for insincere reasons…or make negative remarks about anyone important to attract attention and settlement or cynically withhold legitimate criticisms because I have been paid off!

For the record, I am not a saint. And, yes, I sometimes betray my own journalistic principles by not participating when VIPs I know and like – Aviation Minister Stella Oduah, for example – are being attacked for messing up.

Stella was kind to me long before she became a Minister;

As far as I’m concerned, while the main Nigerian political parties contain some worthy individuals who come up with good ideas and try to do their jobs efficiently and honestly, the PDP, APC et al are utterly unimpressive overall

Have I been settled?!

Whenever I say anything nice about Governor Amaechi or President Jonathan, at least one Vanguard reader contacts me to accuse me of having been “settled”.

Meanwhile, a cousin keeps telling me that “almost everyC M Y K

•Governor Rotimi Amaechi

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and I haven’t seen her for three years but I can’t be coldly objective about her in public.

As I often say, we are all human.

But please kindly note a) that I am not a hired pen who sells her newspaper space to various high bidders, b) that I am

SO not rich that I am still living in rented accommodation at the age of 54 and c) that if I speak well of Jonathan, Amaechi or anyone else, I speak well of them for genuine reasons.

PDP versus the rest

As far as I’m concerned, while the main Nigerian political parties contain some worthy individuals who come up with good ideas and try to do their jobs efficiently and honestly, the PDP, APC et al are utterly unimpressive overall.

They are all riddled with corruption. They are all run by despots who only pay lip service to democracy. They are all largely populated by hustlers who are motivated by materialism, vanity and megalomania rather than by idealism. They all engage in electoral malpractices. And I think it is safe to say that this country cannot move forward properly until they clean up their sordid acts.

There are times when I throw my hands up in total despair and gloomily conclude that there is no hope whatsoever.

But I also have optimistic days on which I believe that change is entirely possible…and that no matter how flawed opposition parties are themselves, they can, if they are strong and noisy enough, goad unsatisfac-

tory ruling parties into performing more satisfactorily.

With the above belief in mind, I regarded the recent formation of the APC as a healthy development. Now that parties that only enjoyed significant support in the South-West and

North have merged into one unit, the PDP has a formidable rival and will, if it has any sense, up its game to counter this threat to its supremacy…by doing more for citizens who are crying out for a better society.

Farewell Sir

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HE President of the Ijaw National Congress, INC, Senator (Dr) Tari James Sekibo, MFR, JP, died in Yenagoa a few days ago on November l8.

I saw him in Abuja the night before he passed away and he looked a bit frail and tired, but not sick. I never imagined that I would never see him again.

Senator Sekibo was a distinguished legislator during the Second Republic and a former Head of the Okrika Divisional Council of Chiefs who was, at the time of his death, juggling his arduous INC duties with major responsibilities associated with his Chairmanship of the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority.

He was a leader of distinction and immensely pleasant honorary uncle who will be muchmissed by me and many others. May his sweet soul rest in perfect peace.

•The late Tari Sekibo

Responses to: donzol2002@yahoo.co.uk or to 0802 747 6458 OR 0811 675 9752 (texts only). PLEASE KINDLY NOTE THAT UNLESS YOU REQUEST ANONYMITY, YOUR COMMENTS MAY BE PUBLISHED, WITH YOUR NAMES AND CONTACT DETAILS ATTACHED.

18 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 ONE of the steps that Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State took to reduce youth unemployment and recruit fresh, young hands to participate in the provision of governmental services was the creation of the Youth Employment Scheme of Oyo State (YES-O). It was an emulation of a similar programme enacted by Osun State, known as Osun Youth Employment Scheme (OYES).

Under the scheme, about 20,000 youth were recruited and trained to work in the emergency services, waste management, environmental sanitation, traffic management and some aspects of educational services. They were paid a monthly stipend of N10,000 each. It was clearly not a regular employment scheme but a palliative to give the idle youth something useful to do for society in return for a monthly handout.

Uniforms were sewn for the cadets as a sign of authority.

But once the scheme took off, it soon became the proverbial Frankenstein monster that turned round to devour its master. Life was made hellish for the ordinary folk, as the operatives mounted a siege, extorting huge sums of money for real or trumped-

Oyo's sack of YES-O cadets up traffic offences, towing away people's vehicles, carrying out illegal demolitions and carting away traders' wares while forcing people to part with huge sums of money before their belongings were restored to them. The money invariably went into private pockets. The YES-O scheme thus became a reign of terror perpetrated by the cadets in total contravention of the original intents of setting it up. When the government sacked all 20,000 members of the Scheme, it was widely cheered by the people.

We hope the lesson of this misadventure has been learnt. Governor Ajimobi simply plunged headlong into a scheme set up by his next door neighbour without taking time to see if it would produce expected results

in his state. The state had to be put through a costly experiment that got its finger burnt before backing out in defeat.

Clearly, due diligence was not done in selecting the participants. Rather, it was thrown open to all comers and people used to rough ways of making money. It is not clear now how much training or orientation these people got before deployment into the field. The uniforms merely conferred official legitimacy for them to swoop upon fellow citizens.

Governor Ajimobi should meet with his Osun and Lagos peers and find out how theirs worked. In Lagos, former governor, Ahmed Tinubu, also recruited people from the streets to start such schemes as Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI), Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and others. The journey was not smooth, as citizens complained of similar acts of corruption and brigandage against their operatives. But the continued re-orientation of the operatives and their placement on full employment, led to a gradual refinement in their conducts.

Ajimobi should return to the drawing board.

OPINION

By BOBSON GBINIJE

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HE reason for the Christmas season is the commemoration of the glorious birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus the Christ. Although, the exact date of His birth remains an issue of great scholastic saber-rattling, one infallible truth that stands with unshakeable firmness is that Christ is the immaculate quintessence of love. The commemoration of his birth is supposed to be a season of spiritual and physical retreat for stock-taking about how well we have lived a Christ-like life.

The synoptic and hedonistic zeitgeist that has now become the idiosyncratic concomitant of Christmas celebrants redounds to the truism that the spiritual epiphany of Christmas is now sunken in the quagmire of Dionysian exuberance. Hence, the Greek philosopher Socrates said in his PLUTARACH that “bad men live that they may eat and drink, whereas good men eat and drink that they may live”. The bacchanalian debauchery during Christmas season is morally nauseating.

The penumbra of darkness enshrining the subject of Christmas Day is further silhouetted by the avalanche and pyrotechnic of lies unleashed by religious harlequins. One school of thought said in the Encyclopedia American that “the reason for establishing December 25 as Christmas day is somewhat obscure, but it is usually held that the day was chosen to correspond to the pagan festivals that took place to celebrate the birth of the sun. The Roman saturnalia is a festival dedicated to Saturn, the god of agriculture and to the renewed power of the sun. Some Christmas customs are thought to be rooted in this ancient pagan celebration.

All this not withstanding, the concern of this write-up is the ghoulish way and manner in which Nigerians, nay the people of the world, celebrate Christmas with prodigal intemperance and saturnalian revelry. There is no concern

Christmas and wanton revelry for the spirit of truth, peace, honesty and love, attributes that constitute the hallmark of Christ’s life. How can one explain a situation where through random sampling our President, 52% of our legislators, 49% of our Governors, 50% of our Ministers, 50% of our local government chairmen, 60% of our councilors, 25% of our commissioners and 52% of Nigerians are Christians.

Yet we still luxuriate in corruption of monumental proportion. Christians are cocooned in filthy lucre, homosexuality and sodomy, grotesque terpsichorean fits in places of worship, assassinations, kidnappings, bribery and corruption, cultism, depraved economic and political prebendalistic graft. Which Christ are we celebrating?

Which God are we celebrating? Which Holy Spirit are we celebrating? How can we truly be celebrating Christmas when we walk past dead bodies, lepers, the poor and needy without batting an eyelid and sparing a thought for them.

Adam Smith posits that “no society can surely be flourishing and happy, of which the far greater part, of the members are poor and miserable. hrist admonished us to strive for the lofty and high ideals of a noble conscience and humanism, and that life is not all about money! money!! money!!! But about lifting up mankind, about sacrificing our lives to lift up mankind, about being Christ-like in conduct, about sparing a thought for the poor and about giving generously to mankind. Our churches, ecclesiastical hierarchy and Christmas alike, have made a very little impact on the moral growth of society because, they build their church close to St. Peter and yet worship at the gates of hell. A symphony of lunacy.

Christmas is not a season for jejune insipidity in spiritual matters. It is not a period for perfidious and Machiavellian

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dis-ingenuousness. It is a period for our leaders and the citizenry at large to heighten the vibrancy of our cerebral virtuosity and eviscerate pragmatic solutions to the problems of mankind by being sober and musing on how, why and what Christ lived for. We must desist from walking, dancing, strutting and drinking from the frills and thrills of libertines. Jesus Christ is love and all our utterances and actions should be propelled by love.

We must realise and be ever conscious; of the fact that life is ephemeral. It is volatile and evanescent. We must walk steadfastly with humility and fear of God, for no condition is permanent and nobody knows tomorrow.

Hence, essayist and poet, Matthew Arnold said: “….For we are all like swimmers in the sea, poised on the top of wave of fate, which hangs uncertain to which side to fall.

And whether it will roll us out to sea to the deep wave of death, we known not and no search will make us know: only the event will teach us in its hour ”. Therefore we must live for Christ and in Christ Jesus by serving mankind in truth and love.

Finally, we must see the world as one big philharmonic and symphony orchestra in which we are all players and so long as we pick our tunes and keys right, the musical configurations and rhythms will be melodious. But once one or two players degenerate to a discordant tone, the whole graceful symmetry and grandiose sublimity of the rhythm will precipitate a symphony of lunacy with no granule and scintilla of integrity in it. Let us celebrate Christmas by sparing a thought for the poor as Christ did and not saturnalian debauchery. HAPPY CHRISTMAS

•CHIEF GBINIJE, founder of the Mandate Against Poverty, wrote from Warri.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013— —19

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HE central bank is an institution that manages a nation’s currency, money supply and interest rates. It also usually oversees the commercial banking system of this country. In contrast to a commercial bank, the central bank possesses a monopoly on increasing the amount of money in the nation, and usually also prints the national currency.

The primary function of the central bank is to manage the nation’s money supply (monetary policy ) through active duties such as managing interest rates , setting the reserve requirement and acting as a lender of last resort to the banking sector during times of bank insolvency or financial crisis . The central bank is the banker’s bank and also has supervisory powers intended to prevent bank runs and to reduce the risk that commercial banks and other financial institutions engage in reckless or fraudulent behavior.

Central banks in most developed nations are institutionally designed to be independent from political interference. In most cases they are not public, in the sense that they are neither stateowned nor directly regulated by government, parliament or an-

other elected body in such nations, limited control by the executive and legislative bodies usually exists. The governor and chief executive of the Central Bank of Nigeria is Lamido Sanusi. It has been established that the goals of a good monetary policy of a central bank will include the reduction of what is called frictional unemployment(or unintended un employment), creation of price stability through management of inflation, inducement of economic growth through maintenance of stability in interest rates, financial market and foreign exchange. A low interest rate implies that firms can loan money to invest in their capital stock and pay less interest for it.

Lowering the interest is, therefore, considered to encourage economic growth and is often used to alleviate times of low economic growth. On the other hand, raising the interest rate is often used in times of high economic growth as a contra-cyclical device to keep the economy from overheating and avoid market bubbles.

In Nigeria, we have remained in the regime of high interest rates for well over 15 years, but the last few years of Sanusi seems to be witnessing the highest crescendo of high interest rates, dimming any hopes of our climbing out of

The Central Bank of Nigeria needs to help job creation by enabling seed capital, venture capital and capital investments to reach the average Nigerian, especially the youth

the doldrums. When he came to the saddle in 2009, he struck the bank Managing Directors, claiming that there was too much corruption, the banks were whited sepulchers, that if nothing was done their bubbles would burst any time. To ensure stability, he embarked on the sanitisation of the banking sector, unleashing fear and intimidation on bankers.

It is now almost four years after, the common man, the simple business person is yet to see the goodies from the sanitization.

The economy appears like a tired lazy old elephant that has refused to get up and move.

Bank lending rates have continued to hover around 20 to 27 percent per annum on most transactions since the past 10 years without appreciable change.

Simply put, capital or money for long term investments in the real productive sectors, like agriculture, manufacturing, mining and processing, to name a few, is much more scarce now,

The deflated balloons of Anambra State

BY VICTOR OGUEJIOFOR

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HE mass media have been described as the Fourth Estate of the Realm in a democratic society. This is because of its importance in educating, informing and enlightening the populace about the goings on in the other three arms – Legislature, Executive and Judiciary. However, the mass media can be put to negative use to deceive and misinform the populace if their owners choose to be partisan or to propagate their selfish instead of national interest. One such misuse of the media is the flurry of tendentious comments in the private electronic and some sections of the print media in the country on the governorship elections held in Anambra State on November 16, 2013.

A content analysis of the national newspapers generally referred to as the Western Press and analyses by ‘experts’ and commentators in the electronic media will clearly show their bias and deliberate efforts to thwart the will of the majority of the electorate in Anambra State. Every attempt is made to turn reason and logic on its head in order to achieve an aim of cancelling an election where a clear winner had emerged.

One easily concludes that the reasons the ‘expert analysts’ give for calling for the cancellation of the election range from ignorance of the provisions of the Electoral Act as amended to contempt and disregard for the good people of Anambra State as expressed in their use of their

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electoral mandate on November 16. Is it not very unreasonable and ‘idiotic’( apologies to Chief Ojo Maduekwe) not to accept the clear fact that a party that secured 25 percent of the votes in 16 out of 21 local government areas in the state is the preferred political party in Anambra State? How do you compare this with Dr. Chris Ngige’s APC which secured the said 25% votes in only nine local governments or the candidate of the Labour Party who secured same in only his Nnewi North Local Government Area.

The reasons for the massive electoral votes for APGA in Anambra State are not far to seek. Yes, Dr. Chris Ngige, during the three-year tenure he stole in 2003 from the mandate given to Mr. Peter Obi rescued the state from buccaneers and godfathers who looted the state treasury hitherto. But he concentrated his massive road development projects in his Idemili North and some areas of Idemili South local government areas to the detriment of the 19 other local government areas.

Hence, all the villages in his Alor hometown and neighbouring towns are connected with good roads.

The import of this discriminatory action was not lost on Anambrarians and they used the November 16, 2013 election to inform him in clear terms that he is Onwa of Idemili alone and not other local government areas of Anambra State.

Significantly he was only concerned with roads while other sectors of Anambra State economy were neglected. Mr. Peter Obi came and not only did many more kilometres of roads all over the state but

presence at all times. In the early than it was before 2009.

Un employment will continue to seventies to the late 1990s, you hit the high roofs if money to do rarely saw the governor of cenbusiness is not coming forth from tral bank reading speeches, adthe banks. Statistics from the dressing conferences and the National Youths Service Corps press. You could walk into the show that over one million young presence of the governor of your graduates pour into this economy central bank without recognising yearly from the higher who he was. That was in the good institutions, expecting old days of Governors A. Ahmed employment. Governments can and Clement Isong, to name only never cope with this type of two. But since after 1999, our cendeluge no matter what they do, tral bank governors seem to lose and what will happen in the next sleep if not reported weekly in 10 years at the rate we are going any of the print or electronic media. Prof Chukwuma Soludo is what we just cannot imagine.

Every commercial bank insists started it and Lamido Sanusi on applicants for loan as capital, after pretending to be different to show either strong equity has taken it to another level. He commitment, or collateral, before has worn his traditional turban to funding could be considered no his office, donated money to “good matter how profitable the business cause” and sees to it that his plan may be. How can such an weight is thrown around whenapplicant find the equity and ever such takes his fancy.

Before 2009, many Nigerian collateral? The commercial banks are all just interested in short term bankers, including those Sanusi lending, thereby fuelling an chased out of office, were receivimport and consumer orientation, ing awards from all types of quarrather than productive ters overseas in the United Kingorientation. The banks are all dom and the United States. It was expanding their marketing de- interesting to watch and read the partments, chasing after depos- same Sanusi receiving awards its from people, using all sorts of from overseas too like the ones designs which they call products, he rebuked only in 2009. What but the governor of our central then is the difference between those Managing Directors of bank does not seem to care.

In view of the gargantuan re- banks that were hounded out of sponsibility of stimulating and office, and those occupying those maintaining economic growth by desks now when they also round the central bank, the governor trip on government deposits? ought to be a man who is just *Mr. Udegbe, a legal practitiodoing his work, and not given to excessive press and media ner, wrote from Lagos

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BY CLEMENT UDEGBE

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Does the Central Bank of Nigeria really care?

Let the columnists, political analysts, and wolf criers who tend to weep more than the bereaved leave Ndi Anambra alone; they have clearly demonstrated who they want to govern them

,

also opened up Anambra North Senatorial District for the first time, thereby giving the indigenes and inhabitants a sense of belonging.

Let the wolf criers be informed that calling for the cancellation of the elections is not the solution to the electoral problem of Dr. Ngige. Even if the election is held 10 times over, Dr. Ngige will not win the mandate of Ndi Anambra. He is not the Messiah Ndi Anambra have been waiting for. After all his tenure as a senator representing Anambra Central District has not been inspiring so far. He cannot be moving from the Senate to Government House Awka and back to the Senate as if he is the only star in the firmament in Anambra State. When the Great Zik left the governorship of Old Eastern Region of Nigeria for the centre after the 1959 general elections, he handed over to Dr. Michael Okpara who proved to be a much more dynamic person and gave Eastern Nigeria unprecedented economic and political development. Dr. Ngige’s era in Anambra State should be history by now and he should allow other brilliant minds to contribute their best endeavours to the development of the state.

The argument that because less than

500,000 voters out of a voters register of more than 1,700,000 voters cast their votes during the election also falls flat on its face as it is done without sense of history and voting behaviour in Nigeria. The question to ask is how many voters were registered in the state for the 2011 governorship election in which Mr. Obi defeated Dr. Ngige and how many voted? Had voters in Anambra State ever reached a figure of 500,000 in previous elections?

The case of the university dropout who aspires to govern Anambra State is also a very laughable one. It reminds Ndi Anambra of the 1991 governorship election in the state when an illiterate was cruising home to victory until Anambrarians woke from their slumber and gave their mandate to a brilliant mind, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife. Anambra State, inspite of the huge population of traders is too sophisticated for their affairs to be directed by semi-literate people sponsored by money bags with questionable credentials. Hence, the successful capitalist should concentrate his energy on developing his capital and leave governance to trained and equipped people of the ilk of Dr. Willie Obiano, a chartered accountant and Dr. Nkem Okeke, a cerebral economist. They are adequately prepared to move Anambra State forward.

Let the columnists, political analysts, and wolf criers who tend to weep more than the bereaved leave Ndi Anambra alone.

They have clearly demonstrated who they want to govern them. No level of media propaganda or use of money by moneybags to intimidate INEC or bribe judiciary officers can thwart the will of the electorate of Anambra State. *Mr. Oguejiofor, a political analyst, wrote from Nnobi, Anambra State.

20—Vanguard, FRIDAY,

NOVEMBER 29 , 2013

War on crime: Pregnant teenagers, minors arrested •As taskforce raids Oshodi

BY OLASUNKANMI AKONI

B

EFORE the advent of the Babatunde Fashola administration in Lagos, Oshodi used to be a notorious scene of lawlessness, and indeed an enclave of all types of criminals.

But a taskforce set up by government soon intervened by flushing out the criminal elements and restoring sanity to the place. It was an action that was widely and loudly applauded, especially as Oshodi became a reference point of positive development in Lagos.

But recent developments seem to suggest that criminal elements were gradually creeping back to Oshodi. And in response to this, the State Special Taskforce on Environmental and Special Offences had last week stormed the place on a rescue mission. During the operation which was said to be part of a sustained effort to ensure safety

their victims.

Chairman of the Task Force, Mr. Bayo Sulaimon, a Chief Superintendent of Police, who paraded the suspects at the Alausa headquarters, said the pregnant teenager, 16, was living under the Oshodi bridge. In line with the state’s environmental law, the under-aged suspects were taken to different remand homes for children in Lagos.

Sulaimon, however, said the adults among them would be prosecuted in the Magistrate Court. He explained that the raid was part of government’s efforts to maintain the present sanity in Oshodi and its environs.

According to Sulaimon: “We do this daily. For instance, we had earlier arrested 27 under-aged miscreants out of which one is pregnant. We just arrested another 98 miscreants on Friday. It is a continuous activity. Within six months, we arrested 1, 000 suspects in Oshodi alone. Our search

,

Within six months, we arrested 1, 000 suspects in Oshodi alone; our search light is also on other areas but Oshodi is just one area that we have a large number of miscreants in the state

of lives and property as well as total elimination of social miscreants from the popular Oshodi area, no fewer than 98 social miscreants were arrested. The suspects who were picked up at various spots in an early morning raid, were alleged to be responsible for the pockets of criminal activities in the area in recent times.

The suspects, which included a pregnant teenager and whose ages range from from 10 to 17, were allegedly caught in possession of hard drugs like marijuana (Indian hemp) which they used as stimulant before swooping on

,

light is also on other areas but Oshodi is just one area that we have a large number of miscreants in the state,” he said.

Challenges: He lamented the growing number of teenage miscreants and hoodlums in the state.

“The challenge is the courts freeing some of the arrested miscreants back to the society. Ours is to follow due process. And the process is to charge anyone who has been arrested to court. It is the duty of the court to decide on what to do. So if they go back to the spot, we will continue to go after them as well until they leave the place.

*Some of the arrested miscreants

*Two of the teenage girls arrested We are ready to pressurise them to do so. We cannot kill them. We can only arrest them and charge them to court. We cannot do anything more than that. Some of the miscreants run away when they see us. Most of the ones we arrested now, have not been arrested before. We have challenges; the law says that we must charge them to court. If the court doesn’t see enough evidence, it may decide to release them or fine them.

“After serving the term specified by the court which may also be community service, they return.

They believe that all it demands from them is to sweep the streets or wash the toilet and this elapses after 24 hours. These are the challenges. Because we don’t want

the prisons to be congested, the state adopted the non-custodian punishment”. But these miscreants have studied how the law on non-custodian punishment works, hence they usually go back to the same place to commit the same offence. Meanwhile, because the

law states that second offenders in non-custodian law will get higher punishment, the miscreants will change their identity especially their names. Because of the poor state of data management in the country, there is no way they can be identified.

Our community is conducive for investors — IDEA

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BY BOSE ADELAJA

ESIROUS of bringing de velopment nearer to the people, Igbogbo Development Association IDEA, has called on investors to patronise the community, saying their security is guaranteed in any location they choose to transact their businesses. According to the association, the community has partnered with both local and government security agencies to sanitise the town and make it conducive for business transactions.

At a press conference jointly addressed by IDEA and Balogun of Igbogbo land, Chief Jelili Adesola Oduntan, to commemorate the ongoing 2013 Igbogbo day, the Association, used the occasion to call on all sons and daughters of the land, to arise and contribute their quota to the development of the community in order to improve the state of infrastructural facilities and offer employment to its teeming youths.

Oduntan also called on the Lagos State government to fulfill its promises and rescue the town from the collapsing road network in the town. ‘’We all know that bad road

is a general problem in Lagos State but the state government has promised to come to our aid.

We have cried out to the Governor who has visited the town and this gave birth to some buildings being marked for demolition. We believe the step will lead to good road network capable of attracting investors to the town. As for security, the crime rate has drastically reduced as our youths have been called to order and none of them is a security threat to the land,’’. Also, the general secretary of the association, Yaya Ogunsowo, said letters have been written to banks and other corporate organisations for their patronage, while non- indigenes of the land have no cause to worry.

He said the festival which started in1988, is mostly handled by youths to propagate unity in the town. Among other things, the 2013 event will feature cultural day and free medical services, and will be rounded off with a church service on Sunday December 1, 2013 at United African Methodist Church, Igbogbo by 11am.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 — 21

Turkcell sues MTN in South Africa for $4.2bn in Iran damages T

urkish mobile phone company, Turkcell, has taken to a South African court with its $4.2 billion lawsuit against rival MTN Group, alleging it was the victim of corruption and bribery that caused it to lose a contract in Iran.

Turkcell originally pursued the case against Johannesburgbased MTN in the United States but dropped it in May after a U.S. Supreme Court ruling in a separate case made clear that U.S. courts would not have jurisdiction in a claim involving two foreign firms in an overseas dispute. In papers filed on Tuesday with the South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg and seen by Reuters, Turkcell said that MTN, former CEO and current Chairman, Phuthuma Nhleko, and former executive, Irene Charnley, “acted wrongfully” and interfered with Turkcell’s relationship with the Iranian government over the granting of a mobile licence in 2005.

Turkcell accuses Africa’s largest mobile operator of “corrupt acts” - including promises of bribes and the giving of gifts to Iranian and South African government officials - to secure the licence.

It also alleged that MTN promised to influence the South African government’s vote at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Iran’s nuclear program in 2005 and 2006.

MTN said in a statement: “Although we don’t have details of the case, MTN continues to

2,779.00

+6.00

17.21

-0.09

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UNVEILING: From left: Mr. Kazuhiko Nakamura, Director, Audio Video Network Business

Division, AVC Network Company, Panasonc Corporation, Japan; Mr. Masao Motoki, MD, Panasonic Marketing, Middle East and Africa, and Mr. Kota Plumaf, Panasonic, Dubai at the unveiling of Panasonic high definition video camera, MDH2, in Lagos.

believe that there is no legal merit to Turkcell’s claim and will accordingly oppose it.”

Reuters was unable to reach Nhleko or Charnley for comment. MTN has previously rejected the allegations and appointed a retired British judge to lead an investigation that dismissed the accusations as “a fabric of lies, distortions and inventions”.

The lawsuit comes as investors were beginning to bet that MTN might be near an end to its problems in Iran, having been unable to repatriate about $450 million in loans and dividends from MTN Irancell, because of sanctions against

110.97

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92.12

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CURRENCY BUYING CENTRAL DOLLAR POUNDS EURO FRANC YEN CFA WAUA RENMINBI RIYA KRONA SDR

By JONAH NWOKPOKU

-1.0

107.15

154.72 252.4566 210.4192 170.9613 1.5198 0.3006 236.2715 25.3938 41.2532 28.1981 237.5261

155.22 253.2725 211.0992 171.5138 1.5248 0.3106 237.0351 25.4764 41.3865 28.2892 238.2937

Rep tasks Nigeria Railway on accountability

SELLING 155.72 254.0883 211.7792 172.0663 1.5297 0.3206 237.7986 25.5589 41.5198 28.3803 239.0613

CBN Exchange rate as at 27/11/2013

Tehran. Its shares rose 2.5 percent on Monday on hopes that Sunday’s landmark deal between Iran and six world powers on the country’s nuclear program will result in relaxed sanctions and allow MTN to bring home the money.

MTN owns 49 percent of MTN Irancell, a joint venture with a consortium controlled by the Iranian government. The South African group was founded with government help just after the end of apartheid in 1994 and is the biggest and most successful black-run company in the country. With a market value of $36 billion, it is the second-largest company

with a primary listing in Johannesburg.

It also has longstanding ties to government. Former chairman Cyril Ramaphosa is the deputy president of the ruling African National Congress. Charnley started her career working for Ramaphosa when he built and led the National Union of Mineworkers in the 1980s. Nhleko is one of South Africa’s most prominent executives, having led MTN through a decade of massive growth before stepping down in 2011. He is also chairman of the Pembani Group, which has investments in the mining and petroleum industries.

Nigeria pension assets to triple in three years — PENCOM

N

igeria’s pension industry is expected to triple its assets over the next three years to $70 billion, as the government targets small businesses to try to get more people into pension schemes, the industry regulator said.

Umaru Farouk Aminu, Head of Research at the National Pension Commission, said the commission was looking at how to attract more employees of small enterprises onto the schemes. He said 50 million people were employed in small businesses with up to four employees — everything from barber’s shops to small accountancy firms.

“We expect to triple pension assets in two or three years time by targeting the small business sector,” Aminu told Reuters in a telephone interview.

The country’s pension assets have grown from about $10 billion in the last eight years, split between four million re-

tirement savings accounts. Aminu said pension assets stood at $23.5 billion at the end of September. He said contributions currently were mainly from half of Nigeria’s 12 million people working for the government or big companies but there were untapped opportunities in the much bigger small business sector. But there are some big challenges too.

“It is an unwieldy sector, sector has no regular income and it is difficult to track with no statistics on these people,” Aminu said, adding that many do not have bank accounts. He said half of Nigeria’s population of roughly160 million were under the age of 20 years and so many were not of working age or unemployed.

The growth in pensions will also give a boost to fund flows into equities and bonds in the country and could also help improve liquidity on the stock market.

hairman, House of Representatives Committee on Land and Transport, Dr. Davies Sekonte, has charged the Nigeria Railway Corporation, NRC to ensure judicious use of any fund appropriated to it for the rehabilitation of the railway sector.

He gave the charge when he in the company of some members of the committee visited the Railway Headquarters to inspect some of the projects and activities of the Corporation with regard to its 2013 budget performance.

According to him, “The purpose of the oversight visit is to ensure judicious use of appropriated funds and to ensure that all Nigerians benefit from the ongoing reforms in the railway sector,” adding that, “the House of Representatives will continue to monitor all railway projects across the country to ensure proper and adequate accountability.”

In response, the Managing Director, Nigeria Railway Corporation, Engr. Adeseyi Sijuwade, noted that the Corporation has made judicious use of every fund ever allocated to it, and as a result, has attained almost 100 percent completion of all the rehabilitations projects that it embarked upon within the period under review.

Giving a breakdown of the rehabilitation projects, Sijuade said, “The 488 km track and signaling rehabilitation of the western line: Lagos –Ibadan Ilorin – Jebba, which cost about N12.3 billion, has been fully completed, while that of Jebba to Kano and Jebba to Minna have attained 98 percent completion.

“The telecommunication and signaling rehabilitation of the Eastern Line, Port Harcourt to Maiduguri, including upgrade of signaling equipment, has attained only 25 percent completion, while track rehabilitation of the same Easter Line: Port Harcourt – Markurdi and Port Harcourt – Umuahia – Enugu – Markurdi has attained 56 percent completion.” He further explained that works are still in different stages in other track rehabilitation projects and are near completion.

22 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

ICLED unveils venture capital fund for SMEs, entrepreneur

By ONOZURE DANIA

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Managing Director/CEO, Heritage Bank, Mr. Ifie Sekibo (right), presenting a souvenir to the President/Chairman of Council, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Mr. Segun Aina OFR, during a courtesy visit of Heritage Bank management to CIBN’s Head office in Victoria Island, Lagos.

According to Familoni, “We have trained at least 5,000 entrepreneurs and in terms of leadership, we have worked

with quite a number of organisations in developing their managers for leadership in diverse soft skills. Some of

Nestle committed to delivering stakeholders’ value — Gordhon

By WILLIAM JIMOH

N

estle Nigeria Plc’s new Managing Director, Mr. Dharnesh Gordhon, has stated that the company is devoted to deploying right business approach in its operations, while creating long term share values for its consumers, employees and investors.

Gordhon, who disclosed this during a bell ringing ceremony to close trading activities on the floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, added that the company is driven absolutely by opportunities available in Nigeria and other countries on the continent with no fear whatsoever.

According to him, “We have only one mission which is called creating share value.

We want to create value for our consumers. We are creating share value for the communities where we do business, which means creating employments, sustainable economic value and being environmentally friendly in our production processes having to do with how we manage our carbon emission, energy usage,

First Bank rolls out platinum MasterCard

By PRINCEWILL EKWUJURU

T

he International Centre for Leadership and Entrepreneurship Development, ICLED, has unveiled the ICLED venture capital fund to assist small business owners in the country.

Speaking at its tenth year anniversary for entrepreneurs and small businesses, the Director of ICLED, Dr. Olajumoke Familoni, said in the last 10 years, the organisation has been able to train 5,000 entrepreneurs, some of whom are running their own businesses now, explaining that venture capital fund is a form of equity financing that encourages Small and Medium Scale Enterprises, SMES. She said that in terms of leadership, ICLED has worked with a number of organisations in developing their managers for leadership in diverse soft skills, adding that some of the people who have benefited in the training are state governments, like Lagos State, Osun State and Ekiti State, even as she said that they hope to do more in other parts of the country.

Bits

recycling and our product waste among others.

“We are also creating share values for our shareholders.

All these we want to do together, which is our vision.

But how do we intend to carry all these out? We have what we call 2Gs strategy which is about growth and governance. To us, governance is absolutely a key to growth. And that is what informed the launch of a strategy we called; ‘let’s make Nestle tenable, which is an inhouse programme, demanding our employees including me to do things the right way.

“I am driven by opportunities and not by fear. So, to be honest, I don’t even think about fears; the challenge we have is how to create right development platform for our consumers, employees and the shareholders, and we have a strong and robust team at Nestle. So, if there is any fear, it is going to be the global challenge. But for Nigeria, we have a very good team I am very proud of.

“I am excited by the opportunities in the market place and that we have a strong team and what Nigerian economy can do with the

economy of the rest of the continent, it is something to drive our growth in the continent and the more we are getting related to the environment and the government, which is our focus, it becomes easier to do business in the right way and the projection for growth is in our interest by reaching our consumers with the right marketing and the right products,” he said.

Speaking on the company’s presentation of facts behind the company’s financials, he said, “We believe in doing the right things first because we know where we are getting the growth from and what we are doing responsibly. This year, we have tried to manage the pricing issue substantially. We have also catered for consumer protection within the first five month of the year and then we invested more behind consumers’ promotion, which is responsible for the tremendous improvement we currently record.

“The biggest issue is not commodity pricing, the most important thing is to produce commodities that will interest the public the most.”

our clients are state governments, Lagos State, Osun State, Ekiti State and we hope to do more in other states.

Wherever we go, we leave our mark in the minds of the people.

“Some 10 years ago, we opened our doors in Nigeria.

But well before then, the desire to nurture an organisation like ICLED in Nigeria was nursed. I recall the meetings started in our home in Germantown TN, where we would meet. One of the first people that dropped the thought in to my mind was my late friend, General Ben Dodridge.

Professor Dodridge and I met at the university and during lunch one day, he asked a question “Jumi don’t you think that your country Nigeria will need you more that here”, if you can do all these great things here, how about Nigeria”, She said “Corporate responsibility ICLED formed the Chris Adeboye foundation to support education of the under privileged. It’s our responsibility to support those that need help with education, books etc”.

She also said that “We have collaboration with the Lagos chamber of entrepreneurs in areas of leadership, entrepreneurship. We hold short classes to develop leadership skills.”

irst Bank of Nigeria Plc and MasterCard have launched a new platinum MasterCard debit card exclusively for members of the bank’s premier loyalty club.

The use of the platinum MasterCard debit card across Nigeria will give cardholders access to redeemable benefits for transactions done at various t h r e s h o l d s .

First Bank will issue the new MasterCard Platinum debit card to its premier customers in the bank’s private banking segment, as well as at selected high street branches. First Bank also unveiled First Club, a new points reward program for all its customers.

Daniel Monehin, Division President, sub-Saharan Africa, MasterCard said: “MasterCard aims to see a world beyond cash in Nigeria and across Africa.

The launch of the Platinum MasterCard card by First Bank is a commendable step in Nigeria’s transition to a cashless society and as more consumers find differentiated payment options to suit their varying needs, this increases their adoption of and affinity for electronic payments.”

“As a bank committed to innovation in Nigeria’s financial sector, First Bank is very pleased to launch the Platinum MasterCard debit card to our esteemed Loyalty Club members as we understand that one size does not fit all.

GTBank launches GTExpress service

T

owards achieving a more inclusive financial services industry, Guaranty Trust Bank Plc has launched its “GTExpress” service, a comprehensive agent banking service that allows customers access financial services at convenient locations.These nonbanking outlets (agent locations) will provide banking services such as Account Opening (Instant Accounts),Cash deposit and Withdrawal via ATMs, Customer Enquiries, Bills payment, Funds transfer services (local money value transfer) and other activities as the Central Bank of Nigeria may prescribe from time to time.

According to the MD of GTBank; Segun Agbaje “The unbanked sector of the economy presents a significant growth area for banks in emerging markets.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013—23

SON prods manufacturers, importers to ensure quality goods

T

HE Nigerian Export Import Bank (NEXIM) has said that it would support Nigerian exporters this year to assist the nation generate about 15,000 direct jobs in addition to other indirect employments. As a result, the bank said it is budgeting N18 billion to support Nigerian exporters this year, as part of efforts to boost the country’s export profile.

Managing Director of NEXIM, Roberts Orya, who spoke to newsmen in Abuja, said the bank also hoped to enhance credit insurance to help develop better market access for the country’s exporters.

He also he said that it is the plan to strengthen collaboration with other EXIM banks across the globe to avail concessional long-term credit as investment capital that will help create jobs for Nigeria and generate more foreign exchange for the country.

“We’ve been able to sign a master line of agreement with African Development Bank of $200 million; we expect to draw down the first tranche

T

CONFERENCE: From left: Director General of Securities and Exchange Commission, SEC, Ms Arunma Oteh; Minister of FCT, Senator Bala Muhammed and Chairman of SEC Board, Dr. Suleiman Ndanusa at third Capital Market Conference, in Abuja. Photo: Gbemiga Olamikan.

NEXIM targets 15,000 direct jobs, earmarks N18bn to support exporters of $50 million in 2013.

“That will provide long-term funds at very concessionary rate

to small and medium enterprises. We hope that at the end of the day, we should be able to in-

ECOWAS pursues common market goal T

HE Trade Negotiation Capacity Building (TNCB) project of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has begun a three-day training aimed at exploring ways of effectively enhancing free movement of goods and services in line with its common

market goal.

Organised in partnership with the Ministry of Trade, Regional Integration and Employment, the institutional capacity building training on the instruments of ECOWAS common market for an enhanced regional integration on trade gathered diverse

Dangote Cement unveils growth plans

D

ANGOTE Cement outlined massive expansion plans that would culminate in the firm becoming the continent's largest supplier of the product in the coming years.

The company, owned by Africa's richest man Aliko Dangote, said to be the richest man in the continent, plans to commission plants in several countries thereby 50 million tonnes per annum (mta).

Unfolding the company's future plans, Devakumar Edwin, the company's chief executive said his company's plant in Senegal would soon be producing cement alongside their South African venture, Sephaku Cement, which he said was well on track to open in the early part of 2014.

"These two plants will be our first production ventures outside Nigeria as we aim to become Africa's leading supplier of cement," Edwin said.

He stated that in Ethiopia, work was well underway to build a 2.5 mta plant at Mugher, with production expected early in 2015.

In Tanzania, Dangote Cement has begun work on a 3mta gas-fired plant at Mtwara that is expected to be operational in October 2015.

In Zambia, work is underway on a 1.5mta plant at Ndola, with cement production expected in mid-2014.

Building work is progressing with a 1.5mta grinding plant in Cameroon, with completion expected in the first half of 2014.

In Congo, Dangote will build an integrated plant of 1.5mta expected to begin production in the second quarter of 2016.

Edwin said the company would also build a 1.5mta plant in South Sudan, to become operational in 2016, as well as a 1.5mta integrated facility in Kenya.

Along the coast of West Africa, Edwin said the group had concluded plans to build import facilities to receive and bag bulk cement produced in Nigeria and Senegal, and that work has begun on import facilities in Sierra Leone, with operations expected to begin towards the end of 2013 or in early 2014.

stakeholders from within and outside the country. It will also focus on trade negotiation and regulations with a view to increase the number of trade among the member countries.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Trade, Regional Integration and Employment, Naffie Barry, said the workshop was designed to build the expertise of relevant officials, policy makers and the private sector on the Intra ECOWAS trade and its related issues. She said it is also meant to reinforce the efficient and effective implementation of the protocols and guidelines governing ECOWAS free trade area.

This capacity building training, she said, is vital and timely, given the fact that The Gambia has now completed the formulation of a Medium Term Plan for the implementation of the National Trade Policy 2011 and also finalised the review of the diagnostic trade integrated study 2007.

"The Ministry of Trade has taken a leading role in the process of trade policy strategies by aligning its trade policies to the Programme for Accelerated Growth and Employment (PAGE)," she explained.

Barry indicated that her Ministry is working with other stakeholders including The Gambia Investment Export and Promotion Agency (GIEPA) to continue to adopt strategies to ensure that they fully maximise the use of the scheme as few Gambian industries and products are currently utilising the scheme.

tervene more than N18 billion because the N18 billion was exclusive of first tranche of $50 million from the AfDB (African Development Bank) line.”

He assured that the bank would step up exporter enlightenment campaign to enable Nigerians understand and know the products available to tap into, adding that inter agency collaboration would also be strengthened.

Orya said the bank was able to support and assist various export oriented projects in various sub sectors of the economy in 2012 and these sectors he said included the agro processing, manufacturing, solid minerals and services sub sectors.

“Under the services, we looked at financing, hotels for tourism, financing air, road and sea transportation, as well as the creative and entertainment industry.

The NEXIM boss however said lack of adequate security from stakeholders in the industry hampered easy access to the entertainment fund.

According to him, the bank received a report from EXIM Bank of India to guide disbursement of the entertainers forbearance package, adding that such “type of forbearance can only be given when the Federal Government has been able to come out with a definite position and how people can access the fund based on various innovative products that will not necessary tie them into some form of definite security.”

He assured that the bank would continue to find avenues to ensure that some of the regulatory challenges limiting the accessing of the fund were reduced.

Orya observed that the banks insisted on the regulatory framework because the fund was not a grant, adding that those that were able to access the fund had effectively used it to boost the sector.

HE Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has called for the support of manufacturers and importers of goods to ensure the importation and production of quality goods in the country.

Mr Yakubu Bukar, the Head of Kano SON office, disclosed this on Tuesday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kano.

He said that Nigerians deserved to get value for their hard earned money, adding that SON had put in place measures to improve on standards of goods.

"We have been sensitising the manufacturers and importers of goods on the need to meet our requirements so as to be certified with the Nigeria Industrial Standard (NIS)."

"Our director general has graciously approved free e-registration of products for locally produced goods while imported goods attract a particular fee," he told NAN. Bukar said that SON Kano had visited plants and industries in the state to ensure full compliance with the e-registration exercise, adding that the "e-registration will allow manufacturers get our Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP).

ODUACCIMA boosts mega trade fair HE Mega Trade T Fair, which kicks off in Ibadan on December 6, has received a regional boost with an endorsement and collaboration from the Odua Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ODUACCIMA).

Receiving a team of the Mega Trade Fair in her office at the Cocoa House Secretariat of ODUACCIMA in Ibadan, the president of the chamber, Iyalode Alaba Lawson, said she was impressed with the level of commitment of the team.

In endorsing the Mega Trade Fair, Iyalode Lawson said ODUACCIMA would not only cooperate but also collaborate with the Central Working Committee of the marketing event to deliver a hitchfree programme.

She said the trade fair was not just an Ibadan or Oyo State thing bur a subregional event for the whole of the South West.

24 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 — 25

They were actually 11 in number when they started in 2011 but the quartet of Michael Abdul, Odunayo Ojo Onasanya, Pat Uwaje King and Gbenga Oyebola, known simply as the Midnight Crew have kept their wits about them for nothing else but for the love of what they do and enjoy doing. In this revealing interview, which they take turn to respond, they open up on their careers, their dreams and why they have stuck together for that long. Excerpts:

By ANOZIE EGOLE & GRACE EKPENBOR How has the journey been this past 12 years? t’s not been very easy but we made up our minds to go all the way as long as God stands by us. The very funny thing is that,we see very far.

I

Have you ever had issues or moments of friction?

Yes, we do have those times.

But the good thing is that we are friends, first of all, and we have realized we all need each other in our lives. And

I N S I DE: Trailer Review: Rukky Sanda’s Keeping My Man Pg 29

no matter the differences, we just have to reconcile. There is nothing that is irreconcilable. And we try to hear ourselves out and then we put ourselves in each others’ shoes.

How did you guys compose that song ‘Igwe’?

‘Igwe’ came from God. It is a song that God gave to us and it is evident in the way that it was received. As a matter of fact, we did that song and then we just travelled out.

What year did the song come out?

It first came out in 2006, then

we couldn’t find expression for it, so we had to remix it.

We changed the production which actually paved way for a much more serious production, better sound and I also think time worked for it. That is, the time that God actually decided to set aside a new throne. Then he puts the song, Igwe on the throne.

How many awards have you won as a group?

We have never bothered to count. As a matter of fact, we still got awards this year.

Initially, we used to beg for votes. But now, we don’t and

we still get the awards.

What were you trying to achieve, because at one point you use some kind of hiphop beat and then it just changed?

First of all, I think Igwe is about the first song that you have the languages being code switched. Well, it came from our experience also.

We’ve had situations before the Igwe song where we go to a church and then you sing a lot of Yoruba songs and you see someone walks up to ask you why you are singing more of Yoruba songs in an Igbo

We might be having a big, ‘white’ wedding together —Paul Okoye.

Continues on page 29 Pg 27

church and vice versa. The song was actually able to bring a lot of people together.

Even the Hausas who didn’t have their language in it, were also thrilled by the song.

What has been your happiest moment for the past twelve years?

Being together.

What advice do you have for the groups that are breaking up and new ones coming up these days?

Well, I would say that the

Continues on page 26

How blogging changed their lives

Pg 29

26 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

Our desire is no o be famous nott tto but tto o win souls Continues from page 25 vision that God gave to us has been our driving force. The vision to cure the world of religion and put the praise of God on the lips of all men. When we say we’ve been able to put the praise of God on the lips of the Yoruba man, we realize what we’ve not done for the Igbo, Hausa,and we also realize that there is still more to do. That has actually been our drive and we’ve been able to achieve one song which all nation sing. But more function and more assignment are still here. So, I think that the fact that we obey God, we allow God to direct us and thirdly, we maintain dedication on the assignment that He has given to us.

Everyday we wake up, we realize that we are going deeper and deeper into all of the assignment.

Why haven’t you guys been able to give us something more than the Igwe song?

I told someone that the fact that you give birth to a child t h a t

be-

comes the president, doesn’t mean all your children will become presidents. Every child has it’s own purpose. So, every album that we release also has it’s purpose.

Our desire is not to be famous but to win souls. So, whatever God will do and whatever song He will use, let him use. I have testimony of a song titled “Nothing can stop me” in our first album. We went to Lokoja and a woman came with her child and testified that she was barren for years. To the glory of God, after listening to that particular song “Nothing can stop me”she was able to bear a child. For me, that was a great testimony.

Can we say that has been your most touching experience?

At the beginning of our lives, that is, about twelve years ago, when midnight crew started at Yaba College of Technology, two testimonies came.

The first one was about a young guy who had given up hope about life and was at the verge of committing suicide but that same day, we were to have our concert. When he came for the programme, he saw many youths praising God and he wanted to know why they were so happy and wondered if they didn’t have problems like him.

To our greatest surprise, he walked up to us to tell us of his initial plans to commit suicide and how his hope was restored. Secondly, a lady told us how her mother was healed from

depression after listening to one of our songs titled “Mgbene”. Since then, I realized that everything we do has a way of reviving and giving people hope. And since then, our part is to ensure that we inspire people and make them happy. I think people choose each of these songs to bless them, and God chose Igwe to bless him.

Why did you choose to come together as a group?

We didn’t choose to, destiny brought us together. We were in the same church choir called “Original love choir” when we were in school. We just ignited together and decided that there are still more to do. We actually did what God wanted us to do in Yaba Tech. Singing everywhere and blessing lives. So we asked ourselves if what we’ve done was enough or should we take the blessing to the bigger world?. So immediately we left school, we decide to come up with “Midnight crew” and do away with the initial name “Original love”. Though the choir still exists.

Is

the name ‘Midnight Crew’ not too hip-hop like for a gospel group?

God told Gideon to go and tear down t h e walls o f Baal.

O u r own mission is to tear down the walls of religion. We saw similarities, they went at nights and we rehearsed at nights while we were in school because we went for classes during the day then towards evening, we would go for singing rehearsals. We realized that there was a lot of similarities in our assignments.

On the last note, they were eleven in number. Comprising of Gideon and ten other men for that assignment. When Midnight Crew started at the initial stage, we were eleven in number. Some actually got married and relocated while some went back for their second degree etc.

How was the fantastic four able to stick together?

It’s like coming from a barber ’s shop and someone telling you how good your shave is. We just realized that we were four.

Did you ever imagine you would become this famous?

When reality comes, you can start crying. But the truth is, God, most of the time will not do a thing for you without showing you what you will become. But when you become that thing, you just find yourself shedding tears because it is possible to miss it. So you just thank God that you made it.

For the men in the group, how do you cope with your female admirers?

The ladies are doing very fine, they are Christians and they have the fear of God. And above all, we are doing very well together.

Trailer Review: Rukky Sanda’s Keeping My Man With ISABELLA AKINSEYE

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ello people and welcome to another edition of Nollywood Movies: To watch or not to watch? I hope you have been enjoying the reviews. This week, it’s the turn of Rukky Sanda’s Keeping My Man to be on the hot seat. Happy reading!

Rukky Sanda, the multifaceted filmmaker has yet added another feather to her hat with Keeping My Man. Starting with the title, it is one movie that any woman would like to see if only to see if they are doing the right things to keep their men. Really, how does one keep her man? Is it through the stomach or through the other place? These were the questions going through my mind as I watched the trailer.

From the opening sequence with nice music, it was obvious that the answer was the latter option. It was from one kissing scene to another kissing scene.

As if that wasn’t enough, we got to see Alexx Ekubo making love to his on screen wife played by Ini Edo and then it gets even worse, Ramsey Nouah is grabbing the thighs of a woman as he fondles her on the bed.

The dialogue too revolves around sex; the demand for it,

the loss of interest in it and the role it plays in general. We see Monalisa Chinda’s negative attitude towards sex when she speaks to her shrink played by Abiola Segun Williams and her husband, Kenneth Okoli. Ramsey’s character on the other hand just can’t seem to just have enough of it. As expected, there is a bit of shouting and dramatic moments but unfortunately, the sound level is not consistent.

Thankfully, Ramsey Nouah saves the day by saying “communication” is key in a marriage. There are also some comedic moments that one cannot help but laugh; Ini Edo (dressed in the costume of a maid) says, “I have been a naughty, naughty,naughty girl” and pushes a broom to put emphasis on the ‘naughty’.

Verdict – You would enjoy watching Keeping My Man if you want to see a lot of drama, making out and sex plus Ramsey Nouah can do no wrong as a lover boy.

Do you agree with me on this review? Let me have your thoughts, comments and suggestions. Send me an email isabella.akinseye@live.com Isabella Akinseye is the founder of www.nollysilverscreen.com – a one stop shop for all lovers of Nigeria’s cinematic industry. We feature trailers, reviews, interviews, cinema listings, articles, videos and red carpet fashion.

Do you agree with me on this review? Let me have your thoughts, comments and suggestions. Send me an email isabella.akinseye@live.com Isabella Akinseye is the founder of www.nollysilverscreen.com – a one stop shop for all lovers of Nigeria’s cinematic industry. We feature trailers, reviews, interviews, cinema listings, articles, videos and red carpet fashion.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 — 27

Stories by Ayo Onikoyi

h We earn peanuts e k i D o t Is Ton —Tinsel star laments dating lihood Malive ichael V boss, Ma? j a l o w A

BY KEHINDEAJOSE

ETERAN actor, Victor Olaotan who is popular for his role in Hit TV series Tinsel recently opened up in an interview on the sorry state of the Nigerian movie industry.

The excellent role interpreter who lived in the United States for twenty years, reveals: “We earn peanuts, people like us are supposed to own helicopters and private jets now but we don’t. People who are doing same job with us in the civilized worlds are living just fine, but we down here in Nigeria can hardly buy brand new cars because the industry is not there yet” he said.

BY JULIET EBIRIM

I

F this piece of news is anything to go by, then the source of Nollywood actress, Tonto Dikeh’s customised gold items that she has been flaunting in recent times, can be traced to the powerful and rich CEO of Malivelihood, Michael Awolaja.

Those in the know who have spotted the duo on many occasions, swear that the

customised Diamond Iphones, Rolex watch and items bearing the personalised mark, MA, have been gifts from the love stricken young man.

The couple were recently spotted at the ELOY Awards where Tonto picked up the Actress of the Year Award.

Those who saw them said they were very cozy with each other and their demeanour showed that there was more

• Victor Olaotan

Davido romances the media, becomes magazine editor

to it than met the eye.

When she gave her vote of thanks after receiving the award, Tonto,thanked her fans and colleagues, then added, “ I’ll also like to thank my boyfriend”, pointing at Michael.

Though she later denied having an affair with Michael, her close pals say she is just being careful.

BY KEHINDE AJOSE

T

HE youthful and eclectic artiste and label boss, David Adeleke a.k.a Davido was appointed the first Editor at Large for Y!’s latest teen brand aptly called-Teen Y! on his 21st birthday November 21st 2013.

It was also confirmed that he will be the brand ambassador for two quarters and will have a column on teen.ynaija.com.The Skelewu star was accompanied by his label mates B red, Shina Rambo, Danagog and manager Kamal Ajiboye.

We might be having a big, white wedding together —Paul Okoye

BY JULIET EBIRIM

P

AUL and Peter Okoye, popularly known as PSquare, are unarguably the

hottest musical sensation in Africa at the moment, and since doing things together comes naturally to them, many had expected that they would

get married on the same day.

But Paul was left behind when Peter got married traditionally to the mother of his two sons, Lola Omotayo, on the 17th of November, 2013.

According to reliable sources, when asked why he did not also perform the traditional marriage of Anita Isima, his fiancee and baby mama on the same day, Paul disclosed that the main reason Peter got married before him was that the two women are from different tribes and different traditions and ways of doing things.

“Anita is Igbo, while Lola is Yoruba. The traditional marriage has to be in her (Anita’s) hometown. But we might be having a big, white wedding together”. Paul said.

Rosemary’s unleashes 10-for-10 reward to celebrate 10th anniversary.

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OSEMARY’s, the soft furnishing company has announced the commencement of 10-for-10 to celebrate its 10th Anniversary with a fair and a reward programme for a total of 60 customers over 7 days. According to Mrs. Ezinne Kufre-Ekanem, CEO of Rosemary’s, “It is 10-for-10, our simple and straight-forward way of saying ‘thank you’ to our customers for keeping us in business for 10 unbroken years. From November 30, to December 6, 2013, the first 10 customers daily in

our flagship outlet in Lekki will win fabulous prizes and discounts on their purchases.”

Mrs. Kufre-Ekanem thanked all past and present customers, employees, suppliers and friends of Rosemary’s for their contribution to the successful existence of the company.

According to her, “ we enjoy making people home proud. We have creatively designed interiors and furnished homes, hotels and offices over the past 10 years through the grace of God and the goodwill of many customers. It is time to say thank you in our usually simple and soft way.”

28—Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

Synopsis Below is the schedule for the week commencing 29th November, 2013

T

he Movie Cloudy With Redemption are releasing on Friday, attached are the art work.

Synopsis for Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 Flint Lockwood now works at The Live Corp Company for his idol Chester V. But he’s forced to leave his post when he learns that his most infamous machine is still operational and is churning out menacing food-animal hybrids.

Synopsis for Redemption Homeless and on the run from a military court martial, a damaged exspecial forces soldier navigating London’s criminal underworld seizes an opportunity to assume another man’s identity — transforming into an avenging angel in the process.

From left: Popular comedians, Gandoki, Julius Agwu, the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Chike Onwe, Basketmouth and a guest at the Abakaliki edition of Glo Lafta Fest, last Sunday.

Glo storms Ebonyi with Lafta Fest

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IGERIA’S leading comedian and television’s comedy visual candy, Bovi, on Sunday sent the residents of Abakaliki reeling with laughter as he mimicked Obama’s political rhetoric with an unmistaken perfection at the Abakaliki edition of Glo Laffta Fest.

Bovi tickled the excited audience with his classic joke that juxtaposed a typical Nigerian political rally with that of the United States of America.

His flawless parody of Barack Obama at a political rally was the clincher.

He got the crowd cheering endlessly and wondering if Bovi was playing a pre-recorded Obama rhetoric.

Bovi performed alongside other top Nigerian comedians and East Africa’s most-celebrated comedian, Salvador, from Uganda. The Ugandan cracked up the crowd when he related his native Ugbokolo everyday life experience, focusing on the notoriety of the village rascal, named Ladeja.

The Abakaliki edition of Glo Laffta Fest was the loudest bang the city has ever witnessed on the social scene as Glo lined up popular comedians and musicians from within and outside the country to thrill the city’s residents to a potpourri of the best comedy and music at the show.

The crowd roared in unison that the show was the most thrilling they had ever witnessed in the city.

Basketmouth, the show’s anchorman had stirred the roaring response when he asked in the thick of the fun-filled show that, “Seriously speaking, has any brand given the people of Abakaliki such a loaded show like this before featuring an international comedian, Nigeria’s biggest and best comedians and Nigeria’s music superstars,” to

which the thousands of people inside and outside the Nkweagu Ugbala Convention Centre chorused a deafening “no.”

Basketmouth, who was impressed by the response, said that “besides Globacom, no other corporate organization rewards its customers like this”. The crowd, among whom was the State Commissioner for Information, Hon. Chike Onwe, students and various professionals, concurred.

The show kicked off with the sonorous voice of Vinissi, Abakaliki’s best female vocalist and swiftly dovetailed into a series of comedy sessions with 2CanTalk, Parrotmouth, SIM Card, Bash, Gandoki, Julius Agwu, Bovi, Akpororo and Okey Bakassi dishing out spontaneous and contemporary jokes to the delight of the people.

Nigeria’s music stars, Chee The Voice, Burna Boy and Mr. Incredible, MI, kept the people on their feet during their different outings with their superlative performances. Chee the Voice was the most improved act of the night with her refined beats, delicious voice and superb utilisation of space. Burna Boy ’s energetic performance was electrifying while MI was simply incredible. The crowd loved him and passionately sang every song along with him.

The Glo Laffta Fest which kicked off in Lagos six weeks ago has toured Abuja, Owerri, Port Harcourt, Benin and Abakaliki. The show will be held in Enugu this Sunday while Asaba, Uyo and Ibadan will take their turn in subsequent weeks. It is rated as Africa’s biggest comedy show and it is organised by Globacom to thank its subscribers for their massive support in the past 10 years.

a Chance of Meatballs 2 and

TOP MOVIES OF THE WEEK CAPTAIN PHILLIPS ABOUT TIME FINDING MERCY INSIDIOUS BUTLER Exhibition Schedule from NOV, 15 — NOV, 21 2013 SILVERBIRD CINEMAS, IKEJA Cloudy with a chance of meatballs 2 : 10:40am,12:30pm,4:40pm Redemption 1:35pm,6:25pm, Purge : 9:05pm Song for Marion : 10:50am, About Time : 12:50pm The Butler : 3:15pm Captain Philips : 4:05pm Battle of the year : 11:25am SILVERBIRD CINEMAS, SEC Cloudy with a chance : 11:00am,12:50pm,2:45pm,4:40pm Redemption : 12:00pm,2:10pm,4:20pm,6:20pm,8:30pm Song for Marion : 11:20am,3:30pm Krrish 3 : 7:40pm About Time : 12:00pm,2:30pm,5:00pm, Captain Philips : 12:50pm,6:45pm Battle of the year : 12:00pm,2:20pm,4:45pm SILVERBIRD CINEMAS CEDDI PLAZA , ABUJA Cloudy with a chance of meatballs 2 : 11:00am,12:50pm,2:45pm,4:40pm Captain Philips : 6:35pm,9:10pm Battle of the year : 12:00pm,2:10pm,6:20pm SILVERBIRD CINEMAS, PORT HARCOURT Cloudy with a chance of meatballs 2 : 12:30pm,2:25pm,4:25pm,6:30pm Song for Marion : 2:15pm,8:25pm About Time : 11:50am,6:25pm Findind Mercy : 12:50pm,2:50pm,4:50pm,6:50pm,8:40pm Captain Philips : 1:45pm

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013— 29 With PRINCE OSUAGWU princeosuagwu@gmail.com 08050498513

BY LAJU ARENYEKA

W

HEN robbers visited Mr. Tunde Makhinde’s house in Lagos last week and took his iPad with them, they did not know that they had shot themselves in the foot.

The tech whiz had activated the tracking device on his iPad, and within a matter of days, had gone with law enforcement agents to catch the thieves red handed.

In the United States recently, an amazing app, Find my iphone, used to track down a stolen iPad and the man who allegedly took it from underneath a family’s Christmas tree. The victim on the ‘Find my iPhone’ app that sends out a signal to the device.Using his computer, the victim was then able to locate the iPad on a map, and alerted police to its whereabouts – just a few houses away.

Even the burglar who broke into Steve Jobs’ house was caught last year two weeks after the crime thanks to the technology in one of the late Apple founder’s own inventions. He might never have been caught if he hadn’t logged onto iTunes on one of Jobs’ personal iPads. Investigators say they were tipped off about the perpetrator when one of the stolen devices connected to Apple servers.

‘But I am no tech whiz!” you

iPad wonder: Apple can App-rehend your ipad thief might say. That doesn’t matter. How smart would smart technology be if it can’t holler at its owner when it gets stolen? There are simple ways to be two steps ahead of the thief. The ‘Find My iPhone’ application can be used if an Apple device is stolen or misplaced. It does not come installed but can be downloaded for free. The user then signs in with their unique Apple ID.a device goes missing, the owner can activate the app on a computer. Signals ‘ping’ the device and its whereabouts can be seen on a map online.can then choose to display a message on its screen, play a sound for two minutes at full volume, lock the device or erase all of its data.can be used on iPhones, iPads, Apple computers and iPods. iOS 7 includes a new feature called Activation Lock, which makes it more difficult for anyone to use or sell your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch once it’s gone missing or has been stolen. And it starts working the moment you turn on Find My iPhone in iOS 7.

wipe to delete your personal data and restore your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Mac to its factory settings. With iOS 7, Find My iPhone can continue to display your custom message, even after your device has been erased. And if you do retrieve your device, you can restore it from your iCloud backup. iCloud is not just for backup, it can help you find your apple device on the map. If one of your Apple devices goes missing, iCloud can help you figure out where it is. Just sign in at iCloud.com or use the Find My iPhone app to see your missing iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Mac on a map.

•ipad thief Turning off Find My iPhone or erasing your device requires your Apple ID and password. And your Apple ID and password are required before anyone can reactivate it. But what happens if you find your device on a location you can’t reach? Go for second best-initiate a remote

How blogging changed their lives

BY KEHINDEAJOSE

A

few years back, nobody had an idea what a blog was called. The word did not even exist. Now, things are different.

Terms like ‘blog’ ‘blogger ’ and ‘blogging’ are now one of the most prominent shapers of information in today’s technology driven world. Anybody who cares to become a formidable brand can’t ignore the power of a blog.

Until her blog began, Linda Ikeji was not what you’d call a household name. But a few years ago, when she shared the horrendous video of a gang rape, she got the attention of the Ministry of Youth, the National Assembly, and a medley of international media features. Linda Ikeji’s Blog popularly known as (LIB) gets over 50,000 visits daily, and is a harvest ground for online advertisers. On how blogging has changed her life she said: “Blogging got me a visa to America, I just showed them my blog and they gave me a visa. Blogging has given me more money than I thought I could ever make. Blogging has given me access to red carpet events.

Before they would not even send me, but now everybody wants me to come to their events.’

‘Bloggers matter, they count and they are crucial not just for the fledgling democracy we ve got here but for our society where secrecy and lack of openness have done us more harm than good’ Says Omojuwa, another blogger. He continues: When the idea came to share my experience from blogging, to public

PTV: From phones to other realms of ICT

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ECESSITY, people say, is the mother of invention. And innovation is the life blood of any invention. This is why PTV Phones,a leading cell phone marketing company in Nigeria recently unveiled its new Corporate Identity to further embrace new opportunities in the ICT industry. The rebranding was essential as the PTV brand is metamorphosing into a fully fledged ICT company. The business diversification process depicts PTV adding retail marketing to their business operations while still continuing in the wholesale marketing sector.

This means PTV will be the mother brand housing subbrands like PTV PHONES, PTV COMPUTERS and accessories The spokesperson of the company, Mr. Adesanmi in his speech said that the company has evolved over the years as a forward looking and vibrant company.

PTV as a brand is set to

metamorphose into a fully fledged ICT company in order to tap into the enormous potentials in the ICT Industry.

Nigeria as the epicenter of growth in ICT has immense business opportunities to be leveraged by companies desirous of making impact, he added.

He said the corporate brand will also have sub brands such as PTV computers, PTV phones etc. “We have retooled our internal processes as part of our strategic goals to remain a pro-active and dynamic organization. One major corporate strategy we have adopted is the diversification of our business. This has manifested in our company moving from a retail phone company into a full fledged technology/ electronic store. This in essence means PTV as a corporate brand will now have PTV Phones, PTV computers, etc. this is in line with our new business model to remain a key player in the nations’ ICT Industry, he asserted.

• Linda Ikeji speaking, consultancy on social media matters and now a recent debutant as a lecturer at one of Ger many ’s top universities, Freie Universitat of Berlin I was held back by my story being used against me as being a show-off. I then decided to write it anyway because I again remembered how much I get inspired even to this day when others achieve success, especially outside our shores. Looking at the faces of students from Colombia, South Korea, Liechtenstein, Turkey, United States,

•CEO PTV Phones Nigeria, Banji Adesanmi (second left), with Uche Ogoji (left) Etu Odi and Uzo Okoye, all of PTV, at the event

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NOVEMBER 29 , 2013

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Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013—35

•Amaechi

•Ahmed

APC vs PDP:

•Nyako

•Wamakko

The battle on ground

THE defection of the five governors from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP to the All Progressives Congress, APC has inevitably redrawn political calculations on ground in the affected states. Below is a state by state analysis of the effect the defection would cause on ground.

BY EMMANUEL AZIKEN, POLITICAL EDITOR

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ivers Rivers State is the only Southern state among the five states whose governors are decamping to the All Progressives Congress, APC. It is only second to Kano in terms of voters and has been a traditional feasting ground for the PDP. The state has over time harvested an average of two million votes from the state for the PDP in presidential elections, and proportionately contributed 10% of the total votes scored by President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2011 election.

Until the recent internal crisis in the state chapter of the party, Governor Rotimi Amaechi was believed to have devoted his time to governance and left party politics in the hands of

former boss.

Amaechi’s difficulties in Rivers State were also compounded by allegations that in his determination to set legacies on ground, that he forsook the government of patronage that was supposedly practiced by his predecessors.

It was not surprising then that over time, that Amaechi garnered against himself enemies who were beneficiaries of the former regime, of which he was actually a participant.

The removal of the PDP structure from him was perhaps an eye opener to Amaechi on how far he had disconnected from the politics of welfarism or patronage as his traducers used that taunt him.

It was as such not surprising that the Amaechi administration has besides its physical and other well

With Amaechi going to the APC, the PDP would not have the leeway to return the traditional 2 million or so votes that it had for long harvested from Rivers State.

,

his former chief of staff, Mr. Wyesom Wike, the Minister of State for Education who is now the face of the anti-Amaechi campaign in the state.

Amaechi’s seeming apolitical stance in the first term saw him allow Wike to be the DirectorGeneral of his campaign, a position that supposedly gave the latter the opportunity to build a political network that he has now deployed to hound his

•Kwakwanso

,

commended projects on ground, lately commenced empowerment schemes.

But how far the governor can go in shaping the political battle ahead would be a matter of keen interest.

Governor Amaechi has explained that his travails in the hands of the PDP were borne out of his struggles for Rivers interests citing how oil wells earlier believed to be for

the state have been divested to other states, particularly Bayelsa, the home state of the president.

He has also challenged his traducers to name what Rivers State has benefited from the Jonathan presidency, inferring that the state has rather lost than gained from the Jonathan project.

It is an issue that is bound to resonate positively with some in the state who have not been directly empowered by the Federal Government.

The situation in Rivers is bound to be dicey in 2015 whether Jonathan contests or not. With Amaechi going to the APC, the PDP would not have the leeway to return the traditional 2 million or so votes that it had for long harvested from Rivers State. The votes would be counted in 2015 and even though President Jonathan would receive some measure of sympathy from his South-South in-laws, the goodwill Amaechi has garnered through his well applauded projects in education, health and agriculture would put him and his new party in good stead to probably share equally the countable votes in 2015.

Sokoto Sokoto has traditionally not been a PDP state even if the governor had flown the flag of the party in the last seven years. Governor Aliyu Wamakko’s entry into the PDP was a last minute political scheme of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, using former Governor Adamu Aliero

of Kebbi State to neutralize the Muhammadu Buhari sway in the Northwest ahead of 2007.

The scheme, however, was not much successful as Muhammadu Buhari still won the plurality of votes in the region in 2007 and 2011. It is thus not surprising that partisans of the PDP have dismissed Wamakko’s decision to leave the PDP for the APC. Wamakko’s entry into the APC is, however, bound to raise tension in the state given the historic squabbles between him and his predecessor and one time principal, former Governor Attahiru Bafarawa.

Bafarawa has alleged that his travails in the hands of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC were inspired by Wamakko and many would be wondering how the two could flow together in the new APC. Contacted on the development Bafarawa responded with a measure of equanimity saying that no single person would decide on the development, that he would pay heed to the voice of the people and his supporters on the issue.

Leaders of the APC it was learnt, have constituted a committee of elders of the party to reconcile the two men.

Eyes are also watching out for the inclination of the deputy governor of the state, Alhaji Muktar Shagari, a long time disciple of Obasanjo.

Sokoto could also become of greater interest if Speaker Aminu Tambuwal of the House of Representatives is eventually picked as the

presidential candidate of the new APC as has been canvassed by several pundits.

It would inevitably erase the presence of the PDP in the state.

Kano Kano is one of the most politically attractive states in the movement to the APC. Kano, despite all the entreaties of Obasanjo had remained firmly in the grip of Buhari who won the state in all the presidential elections since 2003.

However, internal schism in the former All Nigerian Peoples Party, ANPP and Buhari’s own Congress for Progressive Change, CPC before the 2011 election led to the PDP winning the state. Mohammed Abacha, son of the late Head of State who moved from the PDP to the CPC has now returned to the PDP in a move many saw as a way of spiting Governor Rabiu Kwankwanso.

Though the PDP has celebrated the return of Mohammed Abacha and tilted the state executive towards his supporters, stakeholders have posited that the strength of Mohammed Abacha in Kano laid squarely on the Buhari phenomenon.

However, suggestions that the APC would take up Kano for the asking would be undermined by the internal differences between Governor Kwankwanso and his predecessor, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau.

The APC has the moral burden of upholding the head of the former governor who was a driving force in the merger of the three legacy parties that formed the APC.

Continues on page 37

36—Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

however, have so far not mobilized enough political enthusiasm for their quest. Best from Mangu local government area, is also seriously entangled by domestic politics at home allegedly arising from his efforts in pulling his weight at home. His problems are compounded by the fact that his ward is dominated by the Hausa ethnic stock, a development that makes it difficult for him to deliver his ward in local elections.

Other contenders from the region are Professor Soni Tyoben, the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, Mr. Hezekiah Dimka, a former commissioner of Police and Hon. Emmanuel Gora, former speaker of the Plateau House of Assembly.

The contenders from Plateau South include the deputy governor, Senator Lar, Tapgun, Hon. George Daika, a former Speaker of

Pending permutations on the Plateau AFTER a long period of inactivity, the stage is set for the reactivation of democracy at the grassroots level in Plateau State with the scheduled local government elections in the state.

T HE forthcoming local government elections in Plateau State have excited many politically inclined stalwarts. But beyond the euphoria of power and democracy distilling to the people at the grassroots, is the lasting legacy it would impact on the short and long term in the state. To wit, how the elections would impact on life after Governor Jonah Jang.

The council polls are coming in the second half of the second and last term of the Jang era.

Given the fact that the new set of council officials would be in office at the time of the 2015 governorship election, it is not surprising that many political stakeholders with an eye on sustaining relevance after Jang are looking forward to the council polls with much seriousness.

Jang is himself not oblivious, and according to sources, is also putting himself where he can to sustain his relevance through pushing forward a tolerable successor.

The mantra on the Plateau, however, is that anyone with interest in taking over Mr. Jang’s job in 2015 must be discreet at least for now. It is thus no surprise that quite unlike many other states with second term governors in place, that nearly all those with gubernatorial ambitions are doing everything to keep it under wraps, at least from Mr. Jang. The fear of Governor Jang it is claimed is the beginning of wisdom.

Even though his physical and verbal expressions should ordinarily not portend any fear, the political dynamics in favour of the outgoing governor have placed him in position to make a great input into who becomes his successor.

The most notable factor is his closeness to the presidency and the PDP mainstream in Abuja, a fact conveyed by his appointment as chairman of the rival Nigerian Governors

Forum, NGF. So far, the governor has not openly identified himself with any one of the political stakeholders coming forward.

What is, however, known is that some of those who were early to show indication have not been seriously considered by Mr. Jang.

Among those who have been alleged to show interest are the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Shedrack Best, the chairman of the state chapter of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Mr. Haruna Dabin, a former governor of the state in the third republic, Mr. Fidelis Tapgun and two of the state’s serving senators, Senator Victor Lar and Senator Gyang Pwjok.

Damishi Sango, the former minister of sports is also said to be oiling his wheels for a possible contest.

Following his brushes with Mrs. Paullen Tallen, his erstwhile deputy in his first term, Governor Jang it was alleged, pledged that he would only work with an elderly deputy; to wit, one that would not distract the course of governance with a gubernatorial ambition.

It was no surprise that he chose the elderly retired diplomat, Ambassador Ignatius Longjan, his then elderly chief of staff to replace the very active Mrs. Tallen.

Though it had been largely speculated that Ambassador Longjan who is believed to be near 70 would be too old to contend for the governorship in 2015, speculations are abuzz on the Plateau that the deputy governor could well be interested. However, being a shrewd diplomat, multiple sources say that he like the others in contention continue to keep whatever aspirations they have under wraps.

Among the factors likely to shape the contest for Mr. Jang’s job is the matter of rotation. Governor Jang is from Plateau North Senatorial Zone and with him in office for eight years, all three senatorial

•Jang: What will it be like after 2015? districts have had a bite at the office.

It is as such not surprising that Beroms who form the most populous ethnic group in the state, but do not have a majority, are clamouring that the next governor of the state could well be another Berom man like Jang from Plateau North.

The basis of such suggestion is that all zones have had a turn and that the zones should start afresh. This thinking is also being pushed by the assertion that zoning has almost always been observed in the breach as all the zones have in all times contested for the office at every election cycle.

It is a kite that is being flown by supporters of Senator Pwjok and other Berom enthusiasts.

Some stakeholders in the state say that the governor could also be disposed to that thinking given the historic suspicion and rivalry between the Beroms in Plateau North and some other major ethnic groups like the Langtang in Plateau South.

“I don’t see any permutation that will make Jang to cede power to the Langtang people, who have a great dislike for the Berom people,” a source revealed.

If Jang is forced to look towards Plateau South for a successor some within the power circle in Jos are suggesting the deputy governor. However, if the governor decides on a younger

,

BY EMMANUEL AZIKEN, POLITICAL EDITOR

the Plateau House of Assembly, Prof. Longmas Watmuk, the current Director General of the Industrial Training Fund and Arc. John Alkali, a retired director in the Federal Capital Territory Administration.

Jang is himself not oblivious and according to sources is also putting himself where he can to sustain his relevance through pushing forward a tolerable successor

,

element as he had earlier suggested, he could look towards the younger elements among the henchmen in the cabinet such as the commissioner for information Yiljap Abraham also from Plateau South.

Mr. Tapgun who governed the state between 1992 and 1993 is also said to be interested but no one is really giving him a chance, and certainly not Governor Jang.

Contenders from Plateau Central include the party chairman, Haruna Dabin and the SSG, Prof. Best. Both men,

Another factor likely to weigh in determining the next governor it was learnt is the religious factor. Though Plateau is dominated by Christians, even among the Christians, the underlying division between the evangelicals and Roman Catholics is also evident.

One of the reasons said to have negatively affected Mrs. Tallen in the 2007 gubernatorial election is the fact that she is a Roman Catholic. Roman Catholics dominate just about three local government areas in the state.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013—37

Bauchi APC battles with internal crisis

BY SUZAN EDEH

T

HE dream of unseating the Peoples Democratic Party,PDP, by the All Progressives Congress,APC, in the 2015 governorship election in Bauchi State, appears threatened as a result of internal crisis rocking the party.

For a party that is yet to find its foot in the state, the development is regarded as threatening by party faithful.

At the moment, Bauchi APC is contending with internal squabbles resulting from the emergence of two factions of the party.

The event which was expected to have produced executive members, ended up factionalizing the new party—a situation analysts described as messy.

It was gathered that hell was let loose at the convention when armed thugs invaded the the Zaranda Hotel venue and chased away the party cheiftians, while many were injured.

An eyewitness, who pleaded anonymity told Vanguard that some elders led by Senator Mohammed attempted to appoint themselves party leaders against the wish of members.

The source said, “we were at the middle of the function when the armed thugs infiltrated the gathering and unleashed mayhem as several faithful were injured while trying to escape the attack.

One of aggrieved factions of the

•Yuguda: Incumbent governor party which is not satisfied with the method the party was employing to pick its candidate was behind the crisis” Instructively, he noted that Sen Mohammed was nominated as interim state chairman, while Dr Yakubu Leme, Alhaji Garba Gardi and Ali Wakili emerged as secretary, treasurer and publicity Secretary respectively.

•Nazif: Leading one faction This development, it was gathered, was rejected by most party members, who claimed that the process that produced them was not credible.

In this regard, the source added: ‘’The party members were in support of the idea of producing an independent candidate to be made interim chairman, but immediately after

the nomination , the other faction led by Senator Suleiman Nazif Gamawa rejected the list and condemned the process.’’

Indeed, those opposed to the emergence of the new executive hinged their grouse on the ground that anyone with a political ambition should not be part of the caretaker committee.

Those in the camp of Sen Nazif

include; Alhaji Sani Mallami, former All Nigeria Peoples Party Chairman in the state, Alhaji Baffa Tafida, ex- Chairman of defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and Alhaji Aliyu Saidu former Chairman of Congress for Progressive Change (CPC).

Others are; Alhaji Isa Missau, Alhaji Ibrahim Zailani, Alhaji Abdulmuminu Muktar, Garba Malu Chiroman Shira, Hon Aliyu Gibi,Hon Salisu Sabo. This group is disposed to the choice of Col Hameed Ali ( rtd ), who emerged interim leader before the convention.

Commenting on the development, a party chieftain, Captain Bala Jibrin (rtd), regretted that the convention which was supposed to have produced party leaders, was disrupted by thugs.

“The thugs were led by someone who I personally know and respect, but for security reasons I will not disclose his name. He is opposed to the election and the entire nomination process. We condemn this treacherous act in its totality and will report to the national headquarters what happened during the election,but that is the game of Politics. A new date will be announced later to elect the interim leadership of the party, ” Jibrin noted.

Additionally, he said, ‘’it is quite unfortunate that the attempt to inaugurate the leadership of the party in the state was frustrated.

This was the same thing that happened in the Congress for Progressive Change(CPC) during the 2011 election and we are supposed to learn from our past mistakes”.

APC vs PDP: The battle on ground Continues on page 35 How it is going to reconcile the duo has reportedly been assigned to Buhari.

However, Buhari as many note, is often not a good arbitrator a development that has spawned crises in many state chapters of the defunct CPC. But if the APC is able to reconcile the duo, the APC would obviously bury the PDP if the combination of Kwankwanso and Shekarau move together under the cloud of the Buhari phenonmenon.

Adamawa Adamawa is the home state of the PDP chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur and is at the centre of the intrigues that led to the unraveling of the party.

The outgoing governor, Murtala Nyako is set against

some of the state’s most entrenched political forces who have gathered under Tukur to fight Nyako. The only major supporter of Nyako at one time was former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and he too, at one time, also fell out with Nyako.

Senator Jibril Aminu, former state PDP chairman, Mr. Joel Madaki, Senator Grace Bent and several other old political forces who helped to put Nyako in office have remained in the PDP. Nyako has also gone to meet his old enemies from the legacy Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN and the CPC. Yesterday Nyako addressed a mammoth crowd comprising his supporters and stakeholders from the legacy parties in the APC during which he urged peaceful co-existence, resistance to injustice and fairness to all men.

Given the force of incumbency, Adamawa would be a strong battle ground as the PDP national chairman pulls out all levers to prove to all that he is definitely in control at home.

He would, however, be ensnared by the well reported scheme to draft his son, Awaal Tukur as the next governor of the state. Should Tukur pursue that project, it could cause internal schism in the coalition he is presently mobilizing against Nyako.

KWARA The defection of Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed to the APC was undoubtedly not that of his making. As part of the machine which delivered him to office, Governor Ahmed was bound to walk along the path scripted by the machine now still controlled by his predecessor, Senator

•Jonathan: Not moved Bukola Saraki.

Kwara is bound to interest many observers given the historic battles between the opposition as represented by the legacy ACN and CPC who had battled the Saraki machine to no avail.

Remarkably, Kwara is the home base of the APC spokesman, Lai Mohammed.

Party elders would have to

reconcile the different tendencies in the new APC and whether successful or not, the PDP is almost certainly in for the bruising given the almost total control of the Saraki machine over the state.

The minister from the state, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi was nominated by the Saraki machine.

38—Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

T

HERE is little doubt that the year 2014 would mean different things to different people at different times and on different occasions. However, one fact remains unchanged: the year 2014 reminds us of the amalgamation of Southern and Northern Provinces in 1914 by the British to form the present Nigeria.

As it is often taken for granted and sometimes forgotten that the amalgamated Provinces were made of different nations with distinct social and cultural values.

Interestingly, Nigeria harbours different nationalities whose identities cannot be mistaken for another and whose values are well defined. In fact, it is not difficult to place Hausa/Fulani land or to describe Yoruba land or Ibo land in Nigeria. With extensive travelling and close dealings within the country, the ethnic configuration of the place is clearly evident.

That many current issues and expressions are viewed in terms of ethnicity or tribalism should not be a surprise because people are yet to rise above their recognized primitive base and instinct. For example, Mallam El Rufai (Hausa/Fulani) was restricted to his hotel and prevented from monitoring the disgraceful show (Anambra gubernatorial election) recently on the ground that he had no business in Anambra. That view was supported by the outgoing governor Obi and others.

Perhaps, another interesting feature of the ‘inconclusive‘ Anambra election was the focus by some that Dr. Ngige and his party, APC represented foreign interests – Hausa/Fulani and Yoruba. What is yet to be ascertained is whether over 92,000 votes allotted or allocated to Dr. Ngige were transferred from Oshun and Katsina States. It is interesting to note that the PDP party in Anambra State appeared to be jubilating over the defeat of APC in the figures announced than its own regrettable dwindling influence in the state. Another interesting point to note is that the combined votes of both APC and PDP (announced by INEC) were more than that of the candidate of APGA, who has been favoured to win.

I must crave the indulgence of my readers for digressing a bit from the main

Political stability and economic prosperity:

The agenda for 2014 topic of the moment into ethnic factors which have blocked, over the years, the road to the desired political unity and stability. As it is extremely difficult to defeat a sitting governor (as demonstrated in Edo and Ondo States), the current impression, finally rooted in Nigerian politics, is that APGA candidates would win comfortably. But if he should win, it should be won fairly and justly. The ‘inconclusive‘ nature of the recent election does not give credit to the reputation of many eminent statesmen from that part of the country.

Perhaps, the Anambra tragic episode would solemnly remind the country of the necessity of getting the country‘s electoral processes well regulated. It appears that the existing electoral laws and heavy presence of security forces are no longer enough to ensure a fair and just election.

If elections could not be fought and won without the presence of army and the Police, then the exercise is not worth it.

Unless the country is waiting for the doom forecast for 2015, the country‘s political leadership should start now to embrace new electoral reforms that would ensure that the voters have access to voting materials and their votes count without the presence of heavily armed security outfits. Voting should be a regular and normal domestic exercise to be enjoyed by all Nigerians. It looks at the moment as if the country‘s Police and

the Army are being drawn into areas not suitable to them and as such, allegation of compromise could not be ruled out.

If electoral reforms should be undertaken before 2015, the appropriate time in the year 2014. Every capable Nigerian should have the right to aspire to any post by right. There should be right of any Nigerian to vote and be voted for in any election; the Independent Candidate issue should be reviewed as it is the practice in many developed societies. Also, the ‘go-home‘ method after screening, should be reviewed so that any voter, after screening could go straight and vote according to his or her preference.

A more fundamental flaw is the substantial compliance with electoral law often used by judges at election petition trials. It is either complete compliance to the electoral law or nothing. Winners must win totally and not partially. Nigerians are therefore looking upon President Jonathan to look into the inadequacies of the existing electoral laws, or set up a new body or resuscitate the Uwais Report (set up by President Yar‘Adua) in order to give the country a civilized Electoral Law. THE ECONOMY Many analysts have argued, with justifiable conviction, that any politically stable state would be based on economic prosperity, macro-economic stability and thriving employment. Therefore, it

Anambra supplementary polls:

Obiano waits for ‘coronation’

BY VINCENT UJUMADU

S

EEING Chief Willie Obiano, the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, in the November 16, 2013 governorship election on Sunday, November 17, 2013 when Professor James Epoke, the state returning officer in the election declared the election inconclusive, and last Wednesday when he joined some South-East and SouthSouth governors in a group photograph after their meeting in Awka, it was obvious that he is already looking beyond tomorrow’s supplementary polls.

Having garnered 25 per cent of votes in 18 of the state’s 21 local government areas and having for now, the highest number of votes, Obiano is waiting for Sunday to be declared winner.

After addressing reporters at the Governor’s Lodge in Awka,

Governor Peter Obi beckoned Obiano, who was among the crowd, to come and the governor introduced him to the visiting governors as the man who would soon join them.

One after the other, the governors - Liyel Imoke of Cross River, Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta, Godswil Akpabio of Akwa Ibom, Theodore Orji of Abia, Sullivan Chime of Enugu and Governor Martin Elechi of Ebonyi who was represented by his deputy, Mr. Dave Umahi – took a close look at Obiano and were perhaps weighing how he would fit into the murky waters of Nigeria’s politics, if he eventually wins.

Going by the voting pattern in the already concluded elections, it would be very difficult for any party to surpass the number of votes he has secured. About 113113 votes would be in contention tomorrow in about 211 polling units. For the PDP or

•Jega APC to surpass him, one of them has to secure at least 85,000 votes with APGA scoring no vote.

Three parties, APC, LP and the campaign organization of the PDP candidate, Comrade Tony Nwoye, have said they would not participate in the supplementary election, but the PDP leadership is insisting that it would participate in the supplementary

follows that the current country‘s political inability could not be divorced from deepening poverty, arising from largescale unemployment. However, some government apologists have failed to see the direct connection between poverty, insecurity and rising crime rate in the country.

It is true that the economy under the able management of Dr. (Mrs.) Okonjo-Iweala appears stable with the rate of growth of over 6.5 per cent (6.81% last quarter), inflation rate of about 8.5 per cent, and stable exchange rate, howbeit, with large unemployment as a recurrent problem.

The high employment rate (about 30 per cent), rural poverty and drifts to urban areas, however, cast heavy shadows of doubt on the continuous ability of the Finance Minister and the present government to tackle successfully the problems of poverty and the prospects of prosperity.

Many analysts believe that President Jonathan and his government have insoluble problems on oil subsidy and infrastructural decays. It is economic sabotage for a country well endowed with crude oil to be at the same time, an importer of some refined oil products. The point is that this government has no political will to take its hands off the downstream section of the oil industry – the domain of the private sector. Many who see in the 2014 Budget, a solution to the problems of poverty might be disappointed.

An economy which still relies on oil as its dominant revenue, which distributes its greater part of oil income to conspicuous consumption (recurrent expenditure) and smaller part to capital development may have paper higher growth rate, lower inflation, but little or no prosperity.

The Nigerian economy which thrives under tight monetary policy, high exchange rate and punitive cost of money to the real economy is fundamentally unstable (even if it appears stable) and a fertile ground for the rise of insurgency and crime. Why not root for poor- friendly policies in 2014?

election. Already, the disagreement among PDP members has led to the suspension of the director general of Tony Nwoye Campaign Organization, Prince Okey Ezenwa.

Anambra State chairman of PDP, Prince Kenneth Emeakayi, at the party’s state secretariat, announced the suspension of Prince Ezenwa and his director of publicity, Mr. Ken Arinze from the party over their alleged comments on the Anambra governorship election. Emeakayi said their suspension was in line with the provisions of the party’s constitution, Chapter 10 Section 57 (3).

He said: “Following developments in our party regarding the unauthorized publications in the media credited to some members of our party over the supplementary governorship election scheduled for November 30, 2013, the State Working Committee of PDP, at a meeting, reviewed the whole situation and resolved to suspend

Prince Victor Okey Ezenwa and Honourable Ken Arinze from PDP for anti-party activities. Both breached the provisions of the party’s constitution. The relevant chapter provides that a member could be suspended for a period not more than one month, after which it could be reviewed.”

Emeakayi said the two suspended members have been referred to the PDP disciplinary committee for appropriate action, adding that most members of PDP have condemned the action of some members who have been insulting the national publicity secretary of PDP, Chief Olisa Metuh for expressing the position of the party’s leadership on the Anambra election. The chairman said Metuh has been doing his job well and should be commended.

However, what appears to be baffling PDP members was when Emeakayi said he has been in touch with the party’s candidate in the Anambra election, Prince Tony Nwoye, adding that “Nwoye and PDP have agreed to participate in the supplementary election on Saturday because they were deceived by one of the opposition

Continues on page 39

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 — 39

Why NASS can’t alter confab outcome — Ugwu-Oju EMEKA Ugwu-Oju is the President of South East/South South Professionals, SESSP. In this interview, he argues that any attempt to tamper with the eventual outcome of the proposed national conference, might lead to anarchy, describing the confab as a panacea to Nigeria’s future. Ugwu-Oju also spoke on other issues. Excerpts:

BY CHARLES KUMOLU

T

HE proposed national conference is generating mixed reactions across the country, particularly among those, who argued that it was informed by ulterior motives.

What is your position on it?

We believe the country is not working. The country, in many areas, is moving backwards in terms of factors like the quality of education, infrastructure and governance. Anything that would help rescue the situation is welcome.

The national dialogue is one of the areas that can help address the country ’s deplorable situation. Many intelligent, experienced and respectable Nigerians have seen the national conference as one of the keys to reversing our retrogression.

On that basis, it is an idea that we should try to explore, however, it is not an end in itself, but a means to an end.

Do you think the conference will address the fundamental issues threatening the corporate existence of Nigeria?

Right now, the president has inaugurated a committee to determine the modalities and maybe some of the things that could help as a guide. There is nothing like no-go areas; it is an open slate that Nigerians should use to draw whatever they think could reshape the country.

Continues on page 38 parties during the rerun of the election in Obosi in Idemili North where, he said, the APC earlier said it would not participate only for the party to send agents and ensured that the party was voted for. He said the votes in Obosi helped APC to narrow the gap between PDP and APC and insisted that PDP would not allow that to happen again on Saturday because the party would want to maintain it second position.

According to Emeakayi, “what it means is that the campaign team and the candidate are not on the same page on the issue of the supplementary election and we regret that the campaign team has been deceiving the public and bringing PDP into public ridicule. I want to state that the best way to ensure unity in PDP is to maintain discipline and the leadership of the party would never relent in striving to achieve

•Ugwu-Oju At the South East-South-South Professional Association of Nigeria, we have started consulting the people and we intend to go round the country but now, our emphasis is still on the South East and South-South.

I believe the president saw that with the way things were going in the country, we might not even have an election if we did not have the conference. Those who are saying why now should give the president the chance to deliver.

Going to the last incident that happened in Benin — I was there personally, it was a situation where the people there would have lynched the governor of Edo State, Adams Oshiomhole, had he not been smuggled out.

When you have people there, who are leaders of their nationalities and youths with the temperament displayed in that public arena, it will give you some inkling on what some people have not seen.

They see the national conference as a way to make them continue to believe in being part of a country called Nigeria.

The governor said it was a waste of time that would not lead anywhere.

The antagonists of the confab are hinging their opposition on the fact that anything short of sovereign national conference, will not address the issues holding the nation down?

This is because you are playing with words. People are not being rational. A committee is set up to work out the modalities from the people. We see a country that is totally disintegrating and we are just managing it. There are so many no-go areas in this part of the country called Nigeria.

The committee is to draw up a template and people agree that the template is what could rescue Nigeria or if not, how people can go their separate ways peacefully. After 100 years, they can go their different ways peacefully or that we should know how the next 100 years should be.

In that instance, the template should determine how the next 100 years should look like. What will make it work is for that template to be accepted by the people whether it is sovereign or not.

What they want is that we agree to be part of this country or not. If we agree, then we must be able to say this is how we want the country to look like. Nobody should change that agreement.

The most important thing is for the interest of each ethnic nationality to be well aggregated and represented in the new Constitution.

Do you agree with the President’s suggestion that the eventual outcome of the conference will be forwarded to the national Assembly for ratification?

The president has only expressed an opinion. Let them finish the conference then we will see if anyone will change the outcome. I do not believe the National Assembly can alter the outcome of the conference because it can lead to anarchy.

Even if the outcome means some people would be out of jobs, then let it be; the will of the people is sacrosanct to any other personal feeling.

We are not going to sit down if what we are going to agree upon would be tampered with by anybody, be it the Presidency or the National Assembly because that would amount to a waste of time.

The president has set up a committee that would sit for six weeks, to chart a modality for the conference. If whatever comes out is not acceptable to the people, they will not go and waste their time.

People confuse things. There is no conference going on now; it is to agree on the ways to go about the conference because people just do not want to waste their time. That is why some people are making their positions known.

For instance, if people from the South-South say they want the conference to be subjected to a referendum, then anything short of that would mean they would boycott the conference.

If we do not bother about the situation on ground, the country will continue disintegrating and who knows where the whole crisis would lead to in the long run.

Before the president came with the idea if the national dialogue, many people from the South East and South-South were thinking of having a plebiscite — whether to still be part of this country or not.

So, if there is no dialogue, we will have it the other way round.

Obiano waits for ‘coronation’ that.”

But while APGA is hoping to coast to victory tomorrow, the court action instituted by Mrs. Uche Ekwunife, one of the party’s governorship aspirants praying that Obiano be disqualified based on alleged double voters’ registration, is causing disquiet in the state. Ekwunife has already filed the court processes at the Federal High Court, Awka.

The federal lawmaker was said to have said that her action was to ensure that APGA did not lose out in the event of Obiano losing the position.

But the National Chairman of APGA, Chief Victor Umeh, told Vanguard that what Ekwunife did was unacceptable to the party and wondered what she stood to gain knowing very well that her action was an exercise in futility

because Obiano never committed the said offence.

Umeh said: “Ekwunife wanted to be governor and she did not get it. She wanted to be deputy governor and did not get it for obvious reasons. That is not the reason she should be desperate and there is no basis for her action.

“She is bringing her political career into disrepute. This is somebody who contested against Governor Obi in 2010. After that, she came into APGA and we accepted her and gave her ticket for House of Representatives.

She has indeed embarrassed the party. She is a lady after my heart, but on this issue, she is on her own.”

With many governorship candidates saying they would participate in the supplementary

election, it is to be seen if APC will eventually direct its supporters to participate in the exercise.

The ADC candidate, Chief Anayo Arinze said his colleagues have agreed to participate, saying: “I wish to appreciate and commend the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on its decision to conduct a supplementary election in some 201 polling units in Anambra state on Saturday 30th November, 2013 to make-up the perceived deficiencies in the November 2013 governorship election in the state.

“Given INEC’s declaration of the November 16, 2013 governorship election in the state as inconclusive, we in ADC believe that only a

supplementary election will afford the disenfranchised voters another opportunity to exercise their civic responsibilities. I humbly appeal to all disenfranchised registered voters in the affected polling units and local government areas to ignore any negative call and come out en masse and participate in the electoral process that will produce the next governor of Anambra State.

“Anambrarians should stand by INEC to successfully complete the electoral process and announce the eventual winner of the election. Voters in Anambra state and INEC should disregard any call for outright cancellation of the entire election because it is the handiwork of forces from outside Anambra State, who want to set our state ablaze while developing theirs.

40 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29,

2013

INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF WOMEN:

A tribute to my triumvirate of heroines(2)

A

,

expected that because I only let my sister know where I went

had several children, some of whom were my playmates. When one of his sons came home, all theyoung boys and girls admired him as he was neatly attired. I found out that he attended St Andrew’s College, a secondary school in far away Yoruba land.

This was the first time I heard about secondary schools. It was early 1953 and I was in Standard Six, the last class of Primary school. My Yoruba playmates knew about common entrance examinations into secondary schools and, because they were aware that I was a good student, encouraged me to attempt them.

So, I requested from my aunt five shillings to buy a self-help book and pay the fees for entrance examination to a secondary school.

I was surprised when three days after my request, Auntie gave me the five shillings. I was very grateful and quite excited.

The next day, I bought the selfhelp book for two and half shillings and had the balance of two shillings and six pence to pay for the entrance examination to just one secondary school. By this time, I had learnt about the three nearby secondary schools for which pupils took entrance examinations: Hussey College

,

Nearly three hours later, two men, the main invigilators, a European and an African came in with the examination papers.

Later, I learnt that the African was the Biology teacher, Mr. Sagay and the European, the Physics teacher, Mr. Stone, at Government College, Ughelli, and that the delay was because they had an accident on the trip from Ughelli to Sapele. Soon after their arrival, we were handed the examination papers. That was it; the common entrance examination to Government College had begun.

I flipped through to the section on Mathematics (Arithmetic), my best subject. I found the problems tougher than I expected. I turned to the Language section, which was even more difficult. I went back to Mathematics and solved as many problems as I could.

Meanwhile, my stomach was churning because I had eaten nothing all day. I laboured on, going from the Mathematics section to the Language section and vice versa. Stuck between the growls from my stomach due to hunger pang and the unsolvable problems before me, I was happy to hear the invigilators order us to stop. Now I could run home to eat. But I could not leave

Growling stomach My aunt screamed at me so I showed her the various papers I brought with me. She took them and walked me straight to Mr. Okitikpi, who took a look at the papers and declared that I had gone to waste Aunt’s money.

Then he decided to test me, so looking straight at me he said rapidly,“Run Harry run, run to the river run. How many R’s?” I stared at him without the slightest idea of what he was talking about.

“There you are. I told you so.

You have thrown away your money,” Mr. Okitikpi said.

Meanwhile my stomach was growling; I was famished. Then her maternal instinct took over and Aunt asked if I had eaten.

Sobbing, I shook my head. It was late afternoon and Aunt took me away and fed me while simultaneously rebuking me for not informing her that I was going to take the entrance examination. Before the results of the entrance examinations came out a few months later, we had moved away from downtown Sapele to its outskirts, a place called Kpankpan, where a popular politician, Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh, built his residence.

To be continued

LASTMA and Lagos roads to Hell

T

O some people, mere mention of Hell fills them with grief or relief depending on which side of the divide you belong. While to some, there is nothing like Hell not to mention Heaven. This also depends on one’s faith. But to Lagos motorists, the fear of officials of the state traffic agency, Lagos State Transport Management Authority, LASTMA, saves one from going to Hell’s gate. But the roads in which these officials operate can only be described as roads to Hell.

In Lagos, traffic snarl seems to be the unending cry of commuters, not minding the fact that the federal and state governments have a number of agencies set up to monitor, regulate and apprehend traffic offenders. Stories abound about the excesses of LASTMA officials in every part of the state.

Instead of trained traffic officials, what we have is corrupt, incompetent and illiterate officials lacking in traffic management. The only thing they seem to understand about traffic management is towing of

,

The first part of this discourse was published in yesterday’s edition of Vanguard and Urhobo

BY OGBEMI O. OMATETE Map ofDelta College in State and FTER all, I was now a full- Warri fledged SBB. Unknown to Government either Granduncle or Aunt, I College in a gradually moved my belongings place called whatever they were to Aunt’s Ughelli. The apartment around Decima Road. decision about My next move was to go sleep at which to apply Aunt’s place without her to was easy knowledge. My younger sister based on simple Olofagbo, who was then living cost analysis. with our Aunt, helped to ensure The entrance secrecy. Finally, the charade was fee to either uncovered. Papa Olumami read Hussey College Urhobo the riot act to Aunt Oleghenju, or who apologized profusely College was two shillings and immediately. Each of us had to pleading ignorance, which was sixpence whereas that to take his turn to get his height true, although Papa Olumami Government College Ughelli was measured, give his age and may not have believed her. In two shillings only, twenty percent confirm his name on the any case, I had succeeded in less. Consequently, I opted for examination paper. I waited in moving back to my aunt. This Government College and had six the hunger-induced agony for my marked another turning point in pence left, enough for six days turn. At last I was next, so I worth of rice or pottage (poto- dashed forward to get my height my life. measured. I was four feet six When I lived with Papa poto) during recess at school.

On the examination day, I inches tall, but I did not know Olumami, I only knew that after hurriedly took a bath, wore my how old I was so Mr. Sagay wrote primary school one could advance to a commercial college brown khaki uniform and rushed down some appropriate number. to study shorthand and typing or bare footed to Sapele Township I confirmed that my given name to a teachers’ training college. By School, which was the was Oritsegbemi and my father’s the end of 1952, Aunt moved examination centre. There were name, Omatete. Without nearer Sapele city centre then, many other young boys there, realizing it, I had changed my when she married Mr. John none of whom I recognized as name from Oritsegbemi Fregene Okitikpi, a well-known public we were asked to sit in the to Oritsegbemi Omatete, which letter writer. In his compound classrooms, waiting anxiously for I bear to date.

I ran all the way home only to was a Yoruba man, the nurse at the examination to commence at the Sapele General Hospital, who 9:00 AM. We waited and waited. find that everybody was on the lookout for me. I expected that I ran all the way home only to find that because I only let my sister know where I went. everybody was on the lookout for me. I

known as LASTMA plus.

This can be attested to by one of our editors who hand an encounter with them one good Sunday evening on his way to work, at the notorious Mile 2 bus stop. He paid some amount to a fake LASTMA official who went by the name Commander, to bail himself and his car. They even threatened to tow his car, but to where? Under Governor Babatunde Fashola, new rules have emerged on traffic and road usage and so also have new problems.

As commuting in Lagos becomes very, very miserable, traffic agents are growing fatter and richer. People spend about three hours daily to commute from Ikorodu to Ketu and vice versa, a journey that ordinarily takes about 30 minutes. Why? Reconstruction of road. Roads to Hell don’t expire but Lagos roads seem to have expired at the same time going by the multitude and magnitude of reconstruction projects scattered all over the state. The anguish is now badly

,

Before you join the ever growing Lagos car owners, know that you might be driving towards Hell’s gate

vehicles. And if you question or dare complain, your fine increases.

In some areas, the police collaborate with the LASTMA officials to extort. What manner of internally generated revenue that goes into private purses!

Out of curiosity, I’ve interacted with some officials of LASTMA who reside in my area and some other parts of the state. Suffice to say that the only motivation for work is the amount of money they deposit into various bank accounts the next day. What about the unending weekends of Hell with its chaotic traffic gridlock caused by Owambe parties.

To really understand the kind of pain these activities unleash on helpless motorists, this headline will help us to grapple with the situation better.

Lagosians spend N36 billion on Owambe annually —Fashola.

Headline of a story published

by Vanguard Newspapers on September 23, 2013. The type of road blockade caused by these parties depend on who is organising it. From royal fathers to popular politicians, bankers, industrialists, artisans, even agberos or alayes, the story is same everywhere. LASTMA officials help those organising the parties to control traffic leaving the roads to the mercy of fake LASTMA officials

compounded by high rate of commercial activities on the road, as traders annex the entire road by displaying all manner of goods.

How about the ever growing ‘go slow’ bandits who attack motorists, robbing them of their belongings in traffic gridlocks under the watchful eyes of LASTMA and police officers at various hot spots all over the state. Many Vanguard staff have fallen victims of these hoodlums along Mile 2, Apapa Road.

Worse still, the re-construction of roads have made it easier for criminals to have a field day by unleashing terror on motorists stuck in the traffic.

It had been severally revealed that some commercial motorists and street traders also connive with the hoodlums to carry out their nefarious activities both in daylight and at night. This is in spite of the heavy presence of combined teams of armed security personnel. But in all this, how can someone leave his office at Apapa, at about 5:30p.m., and still get home by 11p.m.? No wonder my colleague once described his experience on the road as hell on earth. So before you join the ever growing Lagos car owners, know that you might be driving towards Hell’s gate.

Vanguard Vanguard,, YOUR LUCK TODAY

SCORPIO: Venus and Jupiter at positive angles may tempt you to join some of your friends who are already onboard of merry making train. Watch your health.

SAGITTARIUS: Minor financial success you record today can lead to something bigger and good in the near future; as good luck will smile at many and induce love of luxury, merry, making and romantic association. Genuine lovers will need to be on guard against deceit from new admirers.

CAPRICORN: Both financial success and emotional satisfaction are closed to you than before. Those of you travelling because of maters-of-the-heart are in for an exciting romantic day Those ambitious career-wise will succeed after few struggles.

AQUARIUS: Many members of your opposite sex will go out of their ways to attract your romantic interest. This is the wrong time to engage on unnecessary argument. Been your lucky day you are expected to take good advantage today.

—

THOUGHT FOR TODAY

By Richard Eromosele

Y

ES, from the ... ashes of great failure comes the need to create, re-create and re-mould.

Take for instance, when your little baby is crying, you

Of failure and fortune (2) want to know what is wrong with the child, you check, you inspect and verify every part of the body to ensure that it is well with him/her.

TERROR MUDA

At the end, it is possible you discover what is wrong with the little baby and a new solution capable of stopping him from

in “Never say goodbye”

crying. That is the same attitude that failure positively embraced and m a n a g e d engenders in individuals...

By Lanre Kehinde

PISCES: If you priority is love, much of it would come your way as desired. But here is a better day for more ambitious in the business world. Don’t allow anybody to deceive you over money.

ARIES: Those of you with secret admirers within your working area will have the needed opportunities to make the needed moves. Resist the temptation to deceive others.

TAURUS: Although matters-of-the-heart may give you cause to smile broadly, if care is not taken, you would cause friction that can’t help you r case at work. This is the wrong time for unnecessary scheming within your working arena.

GEMINI: Those of your who are red-blooded for romance may have an exciting and satisfying day. Happenings within your social circles must be taken more seriously.

CANCER: Confrontation may come your way in the circle but the heavens are working favourably for you. Some doses of romance is not too much for you on a day like this.

LEO: Provided you don’t allow your innate ability to be as diplomatic as necessary desert you, things work favourably for you to the betterment of your finances.

KAPTAIN AFRIKA

in

“Pretty Lunatic’

By Andy Akman

VIRGO: Many of you will be in sentimental mood and exhibit strong romantic desire openly. But then, if care is not taken, you may be carried away to the detriment of your finances.

Serious minded lovers are in for happy day.

ASTROLOGICAL COUNSELLING Send yyour our dat th ttoo the As tr ological datee and place of bir birth Astr trological Counselling, PP.M.B .M.B 1100 00 7, Apapa, Lagos 007,

What’s my Horoscope?

Dear Joshua, I want you to give me my comprehensive horoscope, especially what my special gift is.

Which day of the week was I born? Where were my natal planets and their meanings? Who am I? Abubakar, Lagos.

Dear Abubakar, There is no space for comprehensive horoscope but what you’ll have here -under is answer to your questions/ You were born on a Thursday and your special gift is LEADERSHIP quality.

YOUR HOROSCOPE DATA Day Of Birth: Thursday Sun Sign: Virgo: Sun in 20th Degree of Virgo Moon Sign: PISCES: Moon on 10th Degree of Pisces Mercury in 16th Degree of Libra Venues in 5th Degree of Scorpio Mars in 13th Degree of Cancer Jupiter in 6th Degree of Pisces Saturn in 5th Degree of Aquarius Uranus in 2nd Degree of Virgo Neptune in 11th Degree of Scorpio Pluto in 10th Degree of Virgo North Node in 6th Degree of Leo South Node in 6th Degree of Aquarius Quality and Element Cardinal and air star signs hosted two planets each fixed and earth three each, no planet in fire while mutable and water star signs hosted five planets each.

Push-full influence = 20% Non- push-full element = 80% Final dispositor = Lucky Jupiter General Analysis Just 20 per cent of push-full influence in your chart can deceptively present you to others as a soft (or even timid) person but practical Virgo that hosted nothing less than three heavenly bodies when you were born and Astrological aspects between Mercury (mental focus) and aggressive Mars in you r chart are pointers to the contrary.

Yes! You are highly intelligent and your mind works the same way detective’s minds do. It is true, there are little contradictions between your inner self and your emotional being as indicated quality, water element and Virgo characteristics.

One moment, you can be very emotional, exhibiting temper with stinging tongue but a few hour later you are amiable, easy going, friendly and compassionate. You are the adaptable type who will see changes as sources of good opportunities.

LEADERSHIP quality is one of your greatest gifts from God. placement of your natal sun (basic-selfhood) and moon (your emotional being) in Virgo and Pisces respectively mean that characteristics of both Virgo and Pisces are highly pronounced in your inner-self.

41

LEISURE

By Joshua Adeyemo Phone 08056180139 LIBRA: Whatever anybody says or does, you will have both your say and way. Venus and Jupiter may tempt some of you to embrace illicit (or secret) romance within your base of operation.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

VIRGINIA

HOME & ABROAD

dadadekola@yahoo.com

By Lawrence Akapa

42— VANGUARD,

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 NE of the virtues which Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w) harped on and indeed shoed exemplary leadership is Patience and Perseverance.

Unfortunately this is found missing in the lives of many Muslims. Even our leaders who are supposed to show this character are found deficient in patience. That account for some of the ills we have in Islam especially in this part of the world. Allah mentioned the word Sabr patience in 90 places in different chapters of the Qur’an. He equates patience with success and at another ity to persevere and overpoint with faith. He places come these trials without huge reward for those who loosing relationship with Allah. Remember on an Eid are patient.

But how do we exercise pa- day when Prophet Muhamtience and at what point and mad (s.a.w) lost his son situation in our lives it be- Qazeem, yet he went for the prayers. Should we also recomes necessary?

First, there are three lev- mind ourselves of innumerels that we are required to able circumstances of hunshow patience and persever- ger and poverty he went ance. One, in carrying out through with his family; the ordinances of Allah; two, should we recount how he when trouble befalls us; and was hounded, persecuted three, under a circumstance for preaching monotheism? where a Muslim has to per- In a city not far away from Makkah, known as Ta’if, the severe to abstain from sins.

Carrying out the ordinanc- Prophet went there to es of Allah sometimes might preach Islam to the locals. be somewhat difficult, but as The Prophet approached servants of Allah who are the leaders of Ta’if and called very submissive to His will, them towards Islam. Not nothing should stand the way only did the leaders reject of doing what Allah com- the call to Islam but they humands us to do. It could be miliated him, ordered the our daily salat, our fasting or youths to inflict severe injuother ibadah, no matter the ry upon him. They stoned circumstances, they must be him and chased him out of carried out with equanimity Ta’if. The Holy Prophet bled till his footwear was and gratitude.

We also need to show a lot drenched in blood. At that of patience when trouble be- point, Angel Gabriel (a.s) falls us. Note that the sub- came to the Prophet and mission to the will of Allah is said, “If you wish, then I will not limited to a certain con- give the order for two angels dition. We can only subdue to crush the residents of Ta’if any challenge with prayers. between the two mountains The Prophet had challenges, in which it lies.” The Prophincluding other prophets of et replied in the negative Allah. If they were tried and and said, “I am hopeful that tested, we can also be tried, their descendants will accept what is important is the abil- Islam.” This was the patience

O

Stop being just human

BY HARUN RAZAQ

T

HERE are certain table manners that are prescribed in Islam so as to afford a Muslim good of this life and hereafter. These include washing the two hands before eating; Say ‘Bismillah’ when starting, eat using your right hand, eat what is in front of you. If eating with your hand, use three fingers with small bites, lifting it gently with ease to your mouth. To eat on the floor is nearer to what the Prophet used to do. Do not start eating ahead of the elders or teacher. If you are the elder, do not commence eating before everyone is at the table. It is good manners to talk good words during meals. At the end of the meal, thank Allah as in the Hadith reported by Abo Dawood and Nasa’i in ‘the deeds of day and night. “Thank Allah who fed us and provided us with drink”. If you are eating on invitation, it is very proper to make a prayer for your hosts as it is reported by Muslim that Al-Migdad ibn Al-Aswad reported that the Prophet said, “May Allah feed those who have fed us, and provide drinks to those who provided us with it.” Do not express your disapproval or dislike of certain foods. Either eat it or pass it over quietly.

Abu Huraira reported that ‘the Prophet never expressed his dislike of a food. If he liked it he will eat it. If he disliked it, he will set aside.’ Do not put in your plate more than what you can eat; instead, put smaller portions twice rather than one large portions that you will not eat. The Prophet did not approve of leaving any food in a plate since as he said ‘You don’t know which portion is blessed’. Food is a blessing of Allah, to misuse it is contrary to Islam. Do not forget the poor and the needy that do not have the portion you are throwing away.

righteous to perish.” (11:115) “Be patient, for your patience is with the help of Allah.” (16:127) “Patiently, then, persevere for the Promise of Allah is true, and ask forgiveness for your faults, and celebrate the

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Etiquette of eating in Islam

of the Prophet, although he had the power to crush them, he did not, but he persevered.

The Qur’an says: “Be sure We shall test you with something of fear and hunger, some loss in goods, lives, and the

Patience is embracing moral virtues even when there is the possibility to do the opposite. It is to cease being merely human and to begin to use human initiative to go higher and above the ordinary

fruits of your toil. But give glad tidings to those who patiently persevere. Those who say, when afflicted with calamity, ‘To Allah we belong, and to Him is our return.’

They are those on whom descend blessings from their Lord, and mercy. They are the ones who receive guidance.” (2:155-157) Again, a lot of sabr is required when in a dilemma over terrible situation that could lead to sin. For example, when a person is trapped in a situation of committing adultery to get freedom or remain incarcerated. You remember the story of Yusuf, (Joseph). As a young man, Yusuf was a well built handsome man, with a radiating look. The king’s wife and a mistress to Yusuf who must be obeyed threw herself at him. Even under that circumstances, Yusuf, of course refused. He did not only walk away from sin, he ran from it.

Allah stood by him, remove all his pains, gave him freedom and of course made him the King. Being patient is a great virtue and comes with a great reward.

“Seek Allah’s help with patient perseverance and prayer. It is indeed hard except for those who are humble.” (2:45) “Oh you who believe! Seek help with patient perseverance and prayer, for God is with those who patiently persevere.” (2:153) “Oh you who believe! Persevere in patience and constancy. Vie in such perseverance, strengthen each other, and be pious, that you may prosper.” (3:200) “And be steadfast in patience, for verily Allah will not suffer the reward of the

,

praises of your Lord in the evening and in the morning.”

(40:55) “No one will be granted such goodness except those who exercise patience and self-restraint, none but persons of the greatest good for-

tune.” (41:35) “Verily man is in loss, except such as have faith, and do righteous deeds, and join together in the mutual enjoining of truth, and of patience and constancy.” (103:2-3) Patience is the way to find a good life, with all it teaches us.

Patience is not the same as resignation or defeat… It is the ability to walk towards problems with courage and the will to solve them. Then you will soon discover that “Allah is with those who have patience.” (Al-Baqarah 153) Patience is a power for the Muslim as it increases the resistance towards the difficulties of life. It is a potent source of energy; it is the essential condition of victory and success; an armor that protects, in every way, the glory and honor of the one who possesses it.

Allah enjoins us to be patient because despite all the provocations and temptations, it is a means of rejecting an invitation to sin. It is bringing wretched passions to decency, it is bravery in the face of hardship in war, and it is satisfaction without measure.

Patience is embracing moral virtues even when there is the possibility to do the opposite. It is to cease being merely human and to begin to use human initiative to go higher and above the ordinary.

“Call for help (from Allah) with patience and prayer” (Q2:153).

•Imam Olawale Tirimizhi Hamed reciving an award from Alhaji AbdulFatai Raji, State Coordinator NACOMYO and other members of the organisation during the Hijrah day celebration in Mushin.

•From left: Leader Council of Missioners and Alasalatu Shaki; Sheikh Ibrahim Gbodofu Al-Salati, guest lecturer and Alhaji Moshood, Abdul Wasiy Babatunde, State PRO, NACOMYO during the New Hirah Year celebration organised by NACOMYO, Mushin zone in Lagos .

VANGUARD, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013— 43

Ask Your Imam Could you please let me know if dating is haram, and un-Islamic?

Islamic Dressing:

Don't lose your identity

W

E are living in a soci ety attacked by indecent and vulgar dresses. Westernisation and cultural adaptation have eroded our natural sense of decency in our mode of dressing. Day in day out we see new vogue and designers that expose the body parts of a woman all in the name of fashion and style.

Islam guides that clothing must be loose enough so as not to outline or distinguish the body curves. Skin-tight, body-hugging clothes are the

vogue now and some Muslim women join the bandwagon in wearing such clothing to public places which is against the teaching of Islam. Some even with their cute hijab try to justify it by citing some inexcusable excuses. They dressed up but still naked; they come up with funny fabrics that reveal what it is meant to be covering. Such kind of dresses serve the purpose of attracting the opposite sex and hence the way to zina (adultery and fornication). Such people are always abused and have no dignity.

These kinds of dressing are

that you must have to be modest and neat. The Quran in Suratul-Ahzab 33:59 says: "O’ Prophet! Tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers to draw their veils over their bodies.

That is most convenient that they should be recognised and not be molested" Equally in an hadiths related by Abu Hurayra (r.a) narrates that the Prophet (s.a.w) said: “There are two types of people who will enter the Hellfire: People having whips similar to ox-tails with which they will beat people, and women who will be dressed yet appear to be naked. They will seduce men and be in-

Let us first know what datimg means, then, we can attempt to give answers to the question. . 1-When a couple is dating, it means they may or may not get married on the long run. It is different from being engaged. In dating, the intention is not always as clear as when a couple is engaged.

When a couple is dating, the nature of the relationship is usually more intimate than between ordinary friends of the opposite sex: i.e., the couple stay alone together, they look at each others, they may physically touch each others, and they may get much more intimate. Dating, if it is premised on good intention, is by delaying the true purpose of any relationship which is marriage. Having confined dating within this framework, Islam is clear about prohibiting it for many reasons: One is that nonMahrams are allowed to be alone. Two, Islam prohibits physical contact like touching, kissing or intimate interaction between opposite sex. Islam prohibits fornication and adultery and whatever that could lead to sin should be avoided. Quran 17 vrs 32 says: And do not approach unlawful sexual intercourse. Indeed, it is ever an immorality and is evil as a way. You may also read Q24: 2-3, 30-31; Q25:68 and Q60:12.

Send your questions to isholqismQuestion must be brief and names and telephone numbers.

,

Just as behaviour and comportment set the tone for graceful interaction in the public, dressing and appearances also reinforce one’s image as a modest person which the Quran explains

alien to Islam and we have to be proud about it.

Muslims should look like Muslims, and not like others who always think their religion is superior but offers nothing to sense of morality and decency. Islamic dressing is not about head covering alone. The overall appearance of a Muslim should be dignified and modest. This may require a flashy and quality stuff but it must not be revealing. The dress should be full, covering the body parts. It is also important to note that Islamic dress requirements are not meant to be restrictive to •Getting trendy in Islam one particular •Moroof type, what is Adegbesin important is

,

clined towards them. Their heads will be like the swaying humps of bacterial camels.

They will neither enter paradise, nor smell its fragrance, even though its fragrance can be smelt from such and such distance.”

Just as behaviour and comportment set the tone for graceful interaction in the public, dressing and appearances also reinforce one’s image as a modest person which the Quran explains in the verse above.

We should note that the purpose of appearing in full Islamic manner is to earn recognition and to avoid molestation. Many women who cover their hair and dress modestly do notice that men are more respectful and people are more inquisitive about their faith, so they are “recognized” not just as decent women but also as Muslims.

We should not allow the intolerance by non-Muslims regarding women’s dress to impede our relationship with God, the Creator. Complying with the Islamic dress code is a matter of faith and one aspect of our identities, so, no matter the challenges, we must remain the Muslims that we are.

•From left: Alhaji Yusuf (the Baba Oja General of Amuwo Odofin), Chief Awe (Chairman, Amuwo Odofin New Town Movement), Hon Ariyibi Olayiwola Ayodeji (Councillor Ward A2 Amuwo Odofin LG), Alhaja Kudirat Omolara, V-Chairman, Amuwo Odofin LG, Chief Ade Owas (President Amuwo Odofin Landlords Association, Mile 2) and Major Olaosebikan Rtd (Zone D Chairman) during the protest against robbery in the area led by Hon. Ayodeji .

•A cross section of 'November Birthday Mates' after a special prayer at NASFAT Igbogbo branch.

•Muslim women reciting the Holy Quran during a birhtday special prayer in Lagos.

44 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

NAPTIP records 600 child abuse cases

O

VER 600 cases of child abuse have been reported to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Traffic in Persons and Other Related Matters, NAPTIP, with the prosecution of over 200 cases across the country.

This disclosure was made at a seminar on child abuse and the launching of Harmony Life Family magazine in Lagos by Mrs Kehinde Akomolafe, Head Public Enlightenment Unit, Lagos Zone.

She said: “Child abuse includes all types of abuse and neglect of a child under the age of 18 by a parent, caregiver or another person in a custodial role, and can take several forms including physical, sexual, psychological and neglect of a concerned child.”

Ondo increases scholarship

O

NDO State government is to partner international agencies for foreign scholarship to assist students of the state origin. It has also set aside N400 million for the 2012/2013 session.

The new Chairman of the state Scholarship Board, Dayo Awude, said part of the frontiers to be introduced include partnership with the international agencies and exploring scholarship possibilities with the private/corporate sectors.

He said that the scholarship scheme will also be expanded to include foreign and postgraduate students of the state origin.

GCUOBA's luncheon

G

OVERNMENT College Ughelli Old Boys Association, GCUOBA, Lagos Branch, will hold its annual luncheon party on Sunday, December 1, at Grand Ball Room, Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, at 2p.m.

Edo Assembly blasts Orbih over N200bn debt allegation

BY SIMON EBEGBULEM

B

ENIN— EDO State House of Assembly, yesterday, described as “untrue and wicked lies” the allegation by Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state that the state government debt profile was about N200 billion.

The House also described as laughable claims by the chairman of PDP in the state, Chief Dan Orbih, that the state had been underdeveloped by the Adams Oshiomhole-led administration, describing Orbih as a “confused spectator” following his claim that the state government had received over N19.5 billion as security votes.

The Majority Leader of the House, Mr. Philip Shauibu, said that the PDP chairman had personalised his criticisms against Governor Oshiomhole and urged Orbih not to hide under the chairmanship of PDP in the state to fight his personal battle against the governor.

He admonished him to “sort out his personal problem with the governor if there is any because each time he criticises, he says Oshiomhole. But Oshiomhole is just the governor, any decision made is that of the state government.

“For an opposition to be a strong one, it has to be able to

work with facts, not speaking blindly. Everybody today

AWARD: Delta State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Chike Ogeah (left) and the state's Assembly's Speaker, Mr. Victor Ochei, during the presentation of Award of Recongnition to the Speaker at the 3rd ASDEV '81 Club annual lecture at the University of Lagos, UNILAG, Lagos.

PHOTO: Akinwunmi Ibrahim.

1997 COUP: Jonathan tasked on pardon implementation

BY BASHIR ADEFAKA

A

former Head of State of Nigeria has urged President Goodluck Jonathan to see

to the completion of the pardon process he initiated early this year for officers convicted in the General Sani Abacha’s phantom coup of

JONATHAN: Tebite hails Uduaghan, Ochei's support

BY FESTUS AHON

U

GHELLI— MEMBER representing Ughelli South constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly, Olorogun Taleb Tebite, yesterday, commended Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan for his support for President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

Tebite said the the G-7 governors, particularly Governor Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State, to retrace their

steps, adding that “Jonathan is one of our own, therefore, we must support him.”

He said that Governor Uduaghan was doing well for the people of the state, noting that “the people of Ughelli South are very happy with Uduaghan for the projects he is doing in the council.

“We, the people of Ughelli South will support Governor Uduaghan even beyond his tenure as governor of Delta State.

“At least, he should move to

the Senate in 2015.”

Tebite commended the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr. Victor Ochei, for his leadership qualities.

He said: “Ochei is one Speaker that has brought dynamism to the House. Under his speakership, we have passed so many bills and motions to the benefit of Deltans.

“He has renovated the House of Assembly complex. As a matter of fact, it is one of the best Houses of Assembly in the country today.”

Road accidents, 10th highest cause of death— WHO

T

HE World Health Organisation, WHO, has ranked road accidents as the 10th highest cause of deaths worldwide and would soon rise to 3rd.place if there was no change in road use behaviour.

This was revealed at a training for members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW,

by Suzuki Driving School, SDS, a division of C & I Leasing Plc, operators of Red Cab, in Lagos, yesterday.

knows that Edo State is much better than how PDP left it.”

Earlier, the Head of SDS, Mr. Awoderu Olusegun, said the training was aimed at adding value to the society where the institute operates. He said although commercial drivers were blamed for road misuse, private motorists were equally as guilty.

Olusegun added that although the training began with Ojota Motor Park, SDS would target corporate bodies in subsequent programmes.

At the event, Federal Road

Safety Commission, FRSC, Ikeja Command Training Officer, Mr. Tunde Odumasi, said that the road is friendly and peaceful until it made fatal demands based on misuse.

Mr. Efeoluwa Adelusi, Ojota NURTW’s branch Chairman and Lagos State Deputy Organising Secretary, said the union was happy with the training provided by SDS and would give it all the needed support.

1997.

Reacting to the cries of families of the officers, especially widows of late Major-General AbdulKarim Adisa, a former Minister of Works and Housing and that of late Lt. Col. Olu Akiyode, who died without getting their gratuities and salary arrears, the former military ruler said that Jonathan needed to respond to those cries of the widows.

Other eminent Nigerians that reacted include a former military governor of a Northern state, who like the former Head of State, insisted on anonymity; leader of the Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, Chief Reuben Fashoranti; a chieftain of the group, Chief Ayo Adebanjo and a human rights lawyer, Dr. Tunji Abayomi.

The former Nigerian leader, in an interview with Vanguard, advised that since the pardon, as announced in March 12, was a policy that the government had no option but to implement, either through gazette or an official communication to the Army for the affected officers to get their entitlements and status restoration and lay the issue to rest finally.

Abayomi said: “If they have been pardoned, that means they should be restored to their former positions. I think it is about time that Mr. President completed this pardon process once and for all in the name of integrity.”

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013—45

Rivers Youth Council on reconciliatory mission

G7 govs have lost political relevance —ONUESOKE

BY FESTUS AHON

BY EGUFE YAFUGBORHI

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ORT HARCOURT— IN a bid to renew public confidence in the role of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN, in the development of the youths in Rivers State, newly inaugurated leadership of the state chapter of the body is to visit youth groups across the 23 local government areas of the state.

Chairman, Rivers State NYCN, Amb. Soku, welcoming President Goodluck Jonathan and other expected dignitaries to the Niger Delta Youth Leaders Summit/Awards to be hosted in Rivers tomorrow, said: “My administration is a necessity of recent leadership challenges of the body.

“We have a mandate to rebuild the disintegrated house and the state wide sensitisation of the youth leaders across the state coming soon is to set the stage for the series of programmes we have already perfected, to ensure that Rivers youths close ranks and work under a new order of participatory decision making for positive growth.”

Abe tasks NCSU leadership on service delivery

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HE senator representing Rivers South-East, Senator Magnus Abe, has described the re-election of Alhaji Mohammed Kiri as National President, Nigeria Civil Service Union, NCSU, and his deputy, Menele Nzidee, as an endorsement of their leadership style.

He charged them to consolidate on their achievements, with a view to sustaining the growth of the union.

Abe, at a private dinner in Port Harcourt, Rivers State organised to honour Nzidee, who was re-elected as National Deputy President during the union’s national delegates' conference in Minna, Niger State, said that in a country where the fabric of the civil service was facing challenges, securing a second tenure could best be described as an appreciation of the solution the Alhaji Kiri-led administration had put on the table.

PUBLIC PRESENTATION: From left: HRH Alfred Diette-Spiff, the Amayanabo of Twon Brass; Amb Fanny Amu, representing Abacha family/Major Hamzat Al-Mustapha and Patrick Otoro, representing HRH A.J Turner, Chairman of the occasion, during the public presentation of The Story of Port Harcourt, yesterday, in Port Harcourt. Photo: Nwankpa Chijioke.

Kidnapping in Bayelsa, handiwork of mischief makers —DICKSON

BY SAMUEL OYADONGHA

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ENAGOA—GOVERNOR Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State, yesterday, said that the recent spate of kidnapping in the state was aimed at giving the international community a wrong impression about the security situation at the home base of President Goodluck Jonathan.

Speaking at a civic reception held in his honour at Ogbia, headquarters of Ogbia Local Government Area of the state, during his thank you visit to the area, Dickson described as unfortunate, the abduction of Pa Nelson Tempurah, father of the state Commissioner for Tourism Development, Mr. Nelson Belief, as well as the wife and daughter of the state Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Treasurer, Mr. Gbalipre Turner.

Calling for the immediate re-

lease of the captives, the governor warned the people against being used by criminal elements within and outside the state.

Dickson also called on the people of the state to be watchful, especially as the country was warming up for the 2015 general elections, noting that some criminal elements were looking for means of breaching the security situation in the state.

He explained that necessary security measures were being put in place to checkmate the activities of miscreants and make the state an investment haven.

He said: “Some of those people who are working hard to destabilise our state and discredit the home base of the President may not be even too far. Very few of them are even among us, working in collab-

oration with the people outside to destabilise Bayelsa, but, I know that they will not succeed.

“If anything bad happens here, it gives our detractors happiness. So, I want to use this opportunity to condemn the recent acts of kidnapping that are particularly targeted at Ogbia area to discredit us and create a feeling of insecurity in this council.

“Anything they do to Bayelsa is hot news that makes front page of newspapers. So, you need to caution yourselves.

My message to them (kidnappers) is that the people being held captive, particularly the innocent wife of ours should be released without further delay. For those who are thinking of that as a lifestyle, we call on you to desist because it is in your interest to do so.”

A-Ibom women vow to go naked over land acquisition by govt

BY TONY NYONG

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YO—WOMEN of Enniong Offot, Offot clan in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, have threatened to protest naked on the streets and cry on to the gods of the land, should government refuse their plea, and insist on confiscating their land.

The women, who joined the youths, took to streets, carrying placards, following the crisis brewing between Akwa Ibom State Government and the people of Urua Ntia village, in Eniong Offot community in Uyo Local Government Area of the state, over the alleged encroachment of community land by the state government.

The villagers alleged fraudulent action by some government officials attached to the Ministry of Lands and Town Planning.

They carried placards with various inscriptions and appealed to the state government to come to their aid by ensuring that the remaining parcels of land meant for them were not taken away.

According to them, ministry officials are fond of moving in and out of their community to allot and sell parcels of land to people, claiming that land in Eniong had been taken over by the state government.

Spokesman for the community, Mr Patrick Edet, warned

the ministry officials to stop trespassing on their land as the land’s right of occupancy was not revoked in year 2000 as claimed by Ministry of Lands recently in a report published in newspapers.

The state government had, last week, described as fraudulent and criminal, the re-occupation of land by former owners after collecting compensation.

Commissioner for Lands and Town Planning, Obong Eno Akpan, said the expiration of the tenure of the government that acquired and paid compensation for the land did not mean the end of government.

GHELLI—FORMER Delta State governorship aspirant, Mr. Sunny Onuesoke, yesterday, said the G7 governors have lost their political relevance in the country with their movement to All Progressives Congress, APC, even though they have denied their movement.

Onuesoke, when he played host to Delta Central Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, youths in his Agbarha-Otor country home, said movement of the G7 governors would not have any negative effect on the fortunes of PDP. Noting that the G7 governors had lost grip of PDP in their respective states, he said their exit from the party would boost the fortunes of the party in the affected states.

He said: “Their movement out of PDP is not news to us. The G7 governors are spent forces with no political base in their states.

These governors were already minuses in their states, therefore, their movement into APC is of no consequence. It is good radiance to bad rubbish.”

He enjoined PDP faithful in the states not to be discouraged by the movement of the G7 governors, adding that “they should rather regroup and position themselves to reap the dividends of democracy that abound in the PDP.”

Pa Osajie passes on at 85

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A Wilson Osajie, 85, is dead.

His body leaves Benin City for Ewohimi, December 15, for service of songs, lying-in-state and interment at his residence, Ojietohamhen compound, Okede Ewohimi, Edo State.

He is survived by 4 widows and 23 children, among whom is Mr. Ehis Osajie, a Lagos-based publisher and journalist.

Late Pa Wilson Osajie

46—Vanguard , FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

N24 scam: Court orders arrest of defendant, counsel for jumping bail

BY ONOZURE DANIA

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A G O S — LAGOSMagistrate Muyiwa Martins of an Igbosere Magistrate’s Court, yesterday, ordered police prosecutor to enforce an earlier bench warrant issued against one Nelson Maduabuchi who allegedly jumped bail in an alleged N24 million suit.

The bench warrant also covers his counsel, Richard Ekeh, who stood as a surety for him.

At the resumed hearing of the matter, Martins ordered the re- arrest of the defendant after she rejected a medical certificate claiming that the defendant was hospitalised.

The magistrate had earlier issued a bench warrant on October 14 on the defendant who has not appeared in court since he was granted bail in the sum of N2 million with two sureties in like sum.

Doctors flay Lagos govt over multiple taxation

BY ESTHER ONYEGBULA

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AGOS—IRKED by issues of multiple taxation as it affects medical practitioners in Lagos, the Association of General and Private Medical Practitioners of Nigeria, AGPMPN, has inaugurated a 17-man committee to tackle issues relating to healthcare providers.

Speaking during the inauguration of the committee, Lagos State Chairman of AGPMPN, Dr. Adeyeye Arigbabuwo, lamented that issues of multiple taxation by different regulating agencies such as Lagos State Internal Revenue Service, Industrial Training Fund, ITF, Health Facilities MonitoringPrivatisationAgency, and others were, through its activities, regulating private healthcare facilities unto extinction.

Hedescribedtheengagement of tax consultants by the authorities as illegal.

The newly inaugurated chairman of the committee, Professor Victor Inem, appealed to the Lagos State Government to see private healthcare providers as developmental partners in progress.

VISIT: From left: Mr. Andrew Enahoro, Head, Legal/Public Relations, Promasidor, Mrs. Nkem Ihezue, Senior Client Service Executive, TPT International Ltd, Mr. Friday Atufe, Senior Manager,TPT and Mr. Ayodele Oguntubi, Coordinator, Corporate Communications, Promasidor Nig., during the visit to Vanguard Newspapers, Apapa, Lagos, over the forthcoming Quill award for 2014 in Lagos. Photo: Bunmi Azeez.

APC TO JEGA: Forget tomorrow’s supplementary election A

BY ANAYO OKOLI

WKA—THE All Progressives Congress, APC, yesterday wrote Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Professor Attahiru Jega, to forget about tomorrow’s supplementary elections in Anambra State’s governorship poll and restated its call for outright cancellation.

This came on a day South East vice chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Col. Austin Akobundu (rtd), directed party faithful in the state to participate fully in the supplementary election scheduled for 211 electoral wards.

In the letter signed by National Chairman of the party, Chief Bisi Akande, APC said INEC’s refusal to cancel the election would amount to its interference with democracy in the country..

The party noted that the election held on November 16, 2013, was marred by irregularities and noncompliance with the Electoral Act, stressing that the exercise was below local and international standard.

Listing its demands, APC said: “INEC should discard the present fake multiple voters register and

produce one authentic voters register that will not disenfranchise any voter and be published 30 days before any election can take place in Anambra State.

“The suspension and prosecution of all officials of the commission who have ever been

indicted for electoral perfidy to purge the commission of such compromised officials.

“The immediate redeployment and investigation of the current Anambra Resident Electoral Commissioner, Professor Chukwuemeka Onukogu.”

....As monarchs lament Ekwunife’s suit

BY CLIFFORD NDUJIHE/ ENYIMENYIM WKA—TRADITIONAL rulers in Anambra North senatorial zone, yesterday, condemned the recent suit filed at the Federal High Court, Awka, by one of the aspirants in the last governorship primaries of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Mrs. Uche Ekwunife, against the party’s governorship candidate in the last November 16 inconclusive gubernatorial election, Dr Willie Obiano, over alleged double registration.

This came as leaders of Idemili North and Idemili South local councils of Anambra State have urged the Independent National Electoral Commission,

A

INEC, to ensure that voters in the area were not disenfranchised again in tomorrow’s supplementary election.

Rising from a crucial meeting of traditional rulers council in Anambra North senatorial zone, chairman and the traditional ruler of Nteje, Igwe, Robert Odegbo, who spoke for the council, described as unfortunate a situation where members of the same family that should be their brothers keepers as the APGA slogan implied, now became their brothers stabbers.

The royal fathers expressed worry that after the North had finally taken the governorship seat from the central through the

NTI clears staff retirement benefits

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ADUNA—THE National Teachers’ Institute, NTI, yesterday, said it had cleared the backlog of retirement benefits from 2004-2010 and granted soft loans to widows of deceased staff.

Director-General of the institute, Dr. Ladan Sharehu, who revealed this at a two-day retreat with Pension fund administrators in Minna, Niger State, said as at December 2009, the institute owed old pensioners

The party alleged that there was an unholy conspiracy between the commission and the Presidency/ PDP to rig the elections to rig the election in favor of APGA, adding that there was also mass disenfranchisement of voters through the use of multiple voters registers,

48 months pension arrears but had paid the arrears in 2011 and subsequently commenced payment of monthly pensions from June 2011.

The retreat which was organised by the Institute’s Pension Board of Trustees, BOTs, in collaboration with SAABRA Nigeria Limited, according to the D-G is aimed at enabling the BOTs and NTI Pensions Unit staff to further enhance their funds management techniques,

adding that the Institute under his administration paid pensioners allowances before the end of every month.

Sharehu said the retreat would serve as a guide to the board of trustees to prepare staff for retirement and commended the Federal Government for making it possible for the Institute to achieve this laudable 100 per cent pension backlog free-status.

magnanimity of Governor. Peter Obi, the Central Senatorial zone has turned around to snatch the position from the North through Ekwunife’s suit now pending at the Federal High Court, Awka.

Ebonyi varsity teachers shun classroom

BY PETEROKUTU BAKALIKI—ACADEMIC activities are yet to commence at the three campuses of Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki, despite re-opening of the institution by the management last Monday.

Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Francis Idike, who ordered the re-opening, however, said the decision was taken in the interest of students and staff of the university.

Vanguard learnt that the students who had returned to the campuses because of the announcement found that the school management may not have agreed with the university’s branch of the ASUU on the matter.

When our correspondent visited the College of Agricultural Science campus, many of the students were sighted loitering about, with some of them expressing disappointment as to why the EBSU-ASUU was still dissuading lecturers from obeying the directives by management.

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Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 —

COMPETITION: From left, Marketing Manager, Nokia West Africa, Kesiena Ogbemi; winner of Nokia 'Don’t Break Da Beat Rap' Competition 2013, Samuel Falowo, a.k.a Prometh, and Retail Customer Marketing Manager, Nokia West Africa, Jide Adeyemi, during the grand finale of the competition, at 10 Degrees Event Centre, Oregun, Ikeja.

SEMINAR: From left, Lucas Dada, Director, Business Segments, Etisalat Nigeria; Nneka Okekearu, Deputy Director, Enterprise Development Centre, EDC, Pan-Atlantic University, and Oguche Agudah, Special Assistant (Access to Finance) to the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, during Market Access seminar, at the Federal Palace Hotel, in Lagos.

HAND-OVER: Mr. Agele Alufohai, immediate past President, Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (left), receiving a service plaque and a golf bag from the incoming President, Mallam Murtala Aliyu; Mutawallen Gombe, former Minister of State, Power and Steel, and the 22nd President of Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, in Abuja.

47

PRESENTATION: MTN Nigeria Regional Sales Manager, South-South, Mr. Onamari Horsefall, in a handshake with Secretary to Akwa Ibom State Goverment, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, during the presentation of security vehicles to the state goverment by MTN Foundation, in Uyo.

LAUNCH: From left, Retail Director, Adidas, Warren Bavers; Senior New Business Manager, Adidas, Astrud Meintjes, Sidney Esiri, and Managing Director, Mopheth Sport Adidas Retail Partner, Mr. Kunle Oyepade, during the official launch and first anniversary of Adidas in Nigeria, at Adidas Store, in Ikeja City Mall, Lagos.

CONFERENCE: From left, Dr. Bridget Okoeguale, representing the Minister of Health; Dr. Dominic Ukpong, National Chairman, Society of Occupational and Environmental Health Physicians of Nigeria, SOEHPON, and Dr. Okon Akiba, National Secretary, SOEHPON, during their Annual Conference and AGM, in Lagos.

PARTY: From left, Chief Anthony Idigbe, [SAN]; Mrs. Shirley Okonkwo; Professor Alistair Alcock, Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Buckingham, Mrs. Elizabeth Idigbe, and Mr. Alex Muoka, Chairman, Nigerian Bar Assocation,NBA, Lagos Branch, during cocktail reception party by alumni of University of Buckingham, at Lagos Motor Boat Club, Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos. Photo: Kehinde Gbadamosi

AWARD: From left, Mrs. Lola Oyebadejo, past President, Institute of Capital Market; Chief Olubunmi Olaopa, Group Managing Director, Evans Medical Plc, and Mazi OCK Unegbu, MD/ CEO, Maxifund Investment and Securities, during the presentation of Pearl 2013 Market Excellence Award to Evans Medical Plc, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos. Photo: Kehinde Gbadamosi

VISIT: Nutrition Society of Nigeria, NSN, President, Professor Ngozi Nnam (4th left); MD, Cadbury, Mr. Emil Moskofian, (5th left); Mr. Bala Yesufu, Head, Corporate and Government Affairs, Cadbury, West Africa (2nd right), during a visit to the company in Lagos.

48 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

TFCC holds annual victory programme

80,000 Nigerians die of cancer annually

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BY PETER DURU

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AKURDI—NO fewer than 80,000 Nigerians die annually from various forms of cancer and of this number over 10, 000 are said to be women.

Wife of the Benue State Governor, Arc. Mrs. Yemisi Suswam who disclosed this yesterday after leading Benue women in a two kilometer walk against the disease in Makurdi town to flag off the annual Benue Women festivities said the disease “remains the number one killer of women in Nigeria.”

She disclosed that the International Agency for Research on Cancer, IARC, had predicted that by 2030, there would be more than 21 million new cases of cancer, with 13 million cancer deaths every year.

Mrs. Suswam distributed 10, 000 cancer testing kits free to the women.

PCN laments scarcity of pharmacists in health sector

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ENIN CITY—THE Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), has lamented what it described as the paucity of pharmacists in the health care delivery system of the country, calling for concerted efforts to address the situation.

The Acting Registrar the PCN, Mrs Gloria Abumere, who lamented this during the Induction of 60 graduates of the Faculty of Pharmacy from the Igbinedion University, Okada, pointed out that the population of the country requires an effective health care delivery system which requires the involvement of pharmacists, regretting that the scarcity of pharmacists in both government and private hospitals was a danger to the nation’s health care delivery system.

She further urged the inductees to be “good team players with other health care professionals in the best interest of the patients and the society at large.

DONATION—From left: Deputy Managing Director, Ecobank Nigeria Ltd, Mr. Anthony Okpanachi; Founder, Vigilant Heart Charitable Society Orphanage (VHCS), Mrs. Maria Iriowen Osawemen; Executive Director, Ecobank Foundation, Mr. Annik Agbahey and Admin Director, VHCS , Mr. Matthew Osawemen, during the handover of 18-seater bus donated by Ecobank Foundation to Vigilant Heart Orphanage in Lagos, yesterday.

AGOS—THE Truth Foun dation Christian Center (TFCC), located at Omole Phase 2, Olowora, Lagos has kick-started their annual programme tagged ‘Open Heaven.’

The programme hosted by Pastor Julius Sajuyigbe will feature other anointed men of God from different countries, including Pastor Tony Olukoyede from Lagos, Apostle Hoskell Martins from USA and Chuks Chidube, a Nigerian gospel artiste The Programme, which began on Tuesday November 26 ends on Sunday December 1. Time is from 9am to 6pm daily. Venue is the church auditorium

BOKO HARAM: Kogi State varsity, ASUU disown arrested lecturer

By BOLUWAJI OBAHOPOb

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OKOJA — Following the arrest of Dr. Mohammed Nazeef Yusuf, a lecturer at Kogi State University, Ayingba by the Department of State Service, DSS over alleged involvement with the Boko Haram sect, the university authority has dissociated the institution from the activities of the lecturer and the alleged plan to carry out terrorists attacks in the state.

Also, the Kogi State University Chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities declared that the suspect was never an active member of the union.

ASUU Chairman in the university, Dr. Sylvester Ukwuteno said contrary to report from the other suspects that Dr Yusuf was a strong member of the organization, the suspect has never been an active member of ASUU. According to him, “the only link between him (Dr. Nazeef Yusuf) and the association was because ASUU’s due is deducted at source from lecturers’ salaries. And he, like everyone else has his dues deducted to make him an automatic member. But he’s not a strong member as it has been widely claimed. I cannot remember the last time he attended any of our meetings”.

Also, the institution in a statement signed by the Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Hassan Isah admitted that though the suspect, Dr. Mohammed Nazeef Yusuf who was recently paraded by Security agent is a lecturer in the institution the governing council and the management

of the school do not know anything about him beyond his duty as a lecturer “The Governing council and the management therefore condemned and dissociated themselves from all criminality and terrorism in whatever shape or form, where ever and whenever it exist.”

The VC noted that it became imperative to respond to the situation as the alleged involvement of the lecturer has elicited a lot of enquiries from friends, well- wishers, students, stakeholders and sister institutions.

“In view of the negative in-

terpretation and implication for our hard-earned reputation, and the damaging impression on unsuspected members of the public, the institution dissociates itself from all criminal and criminal activities including those of the dreaded Boko Haram sect.”

He assured that security has been beefed up in the school with enough surveillance to curtail any attack from gunmen “In the meantime, the governing council and management of the institution have strengthened security and increase surveil-

lance on campus with the view to stamp out all criminals and criminalities, including Boko Haram activities. We wish to assure the general public, particularly all our students, their parents and guardians, that the campus is safe and there is no threat whatsoever to human lives and property.

“Members of the university community are advised to go about their normal life as the university has adequate security measures to deal with all criminals and criminal activities on campus whenever and where ever they are detected”, he said.

Kwara gov seeks laws against unfair employment policies

BY VICTOR AHIUMAYOUNG & DEMOLA AKINYEMI

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LORIN— GOVERNOR Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara State, yesterday, in Ilorin, decried perceived unfair employment policy in the country, and called for the review of employment laws to protect the interest of workers wherever they are employed in the country.

The governor spoke while declaring open the 9th National Labour Relations Summit and award ceremony of Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies, MINILS, Ilorin.

Represented by his deputy, Elder Peter Kishira, the gov-

ernor argued that his call for a review of employment laws became necessary because “a situation where workers are summarily dismissed, especially in the private and informal sectors without due process or where employees are barred from forming, or joining labour unions is inimical to freedom of association and the right to fair hearing and must therefore be stopped through appropriate legislation.

“As we prepare for another national dialogue, we must bring the issues of collective bargaining especially as it concerns the liberalisation of wages to the fore so that we can legislate on a position that addresses the concern of

workers and consider the financial capabilities of states.”

Governor Ahmed also insisted that government must create space for engagement with key stakeholders such as labour to gauge public needs, noting however that such engagement with labour was often forced by threats of or actual industrial action.

According to him, given organised labour ’s role as an important index of legitimacy, the stakeholders must ensure that the laws guiding the labour sector in the country reflected contemporary needs and interests.

The governor commended organized labour and MINILS for promoting industrial harmony and excellent labour administration in the state,

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 — 49

C M Y K

50 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013—51

Why I defected, by Gov Rotimi Amaechi Being address presented by the Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi on his defection to the APC

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Y dear people of Rivers State.

When by God’s grace and with your kindness this administration took over the mantle of leadership on October 26, 2007, we made a promise to serve you “with humility and Governor Rotimi Amaechi render transparent and accountable stewardship anchored on integrity and good gover- ing our party but many of us kept faith. nance.”

Even when the unfortunate incident of We also promised to “use our God an attempt to deprive us of our lawful given resources to improve the quality mandate occurred, we remained with of life of our present and future genera- the party urging our supporters to maintions.” We made this commitment to tain party loyalty and discipline. In the you, fully conscious of the fact that you face of great provocation we refused to were hungry for service delivery and rock the boat. Our hope was that even that you had placed on us a burden to when we suffered personal injury our prove to the world that our beloved Riv- collective interests as a state would reers State had the potential to rise above main protected within the party we call the murk and redefine governance and our own. leadership in our country. We underUnfortunately, recent events within stood your mandate very clearly and we the PDP have given me reason to reremain resolute in our determination to consider our collective interest as people make you proud. of the South South and indeed as RivIn keeping with our pledge, there- ers people. At various times, as the one fore, to render transparent and account- in whom you had gave your able stewardship, it has become neces- mandate, I had cause to complain about sary that we brief you about the recent the marginalization of our state and our happenings in our state and my own people despite our huge contribution to the national cofOur demand that the Federal Govfers and our unflinching commiternment return oil wells belonging to ment and support Rivers State to us has gone unheeded for the ruling PDP. W h i l e and been treated with levity under the political and this administration economic importance of Rivers position on the issues. For me, no per- State cannot be contested, we continue sonal interest or ambition can be higher to hold the shorter end of the stick. than the welfare of a people that gave A few instances may suffice: • Our me their mandate without conditions. demand that the Federal Government While this crisis has raged, many have return oil wells belonging to Rivers State asked me about what drives my insis- to us has gone unheeded and been tence that the Federal administration treated with levity under this administreats Rivers State justly and fairly. tration. Rather, our oil wells have been To these people I say: I am driven by ceded to Bayelsa, Abia and Akwa Ibom my original vision to bring health to the states. Even after we got a sick, to extend opportunities for educa- judgment that the oil wells were tion to children of all classes, to bring wrongly ceded to Akwa Ibom State and opportunities for employment to the should be returned to us, only dry wells doorsteps of our youth. I remain stub- that were no longer producing oil were born in the hope that this state deserves returned. the benefits of good governance. My In the specific case of the Soku oil disagreement is with some negative wells, despite a decision reached that forces that stand against the entitlement the monies should remain in an escrow of Rivers people to a better life. account till all matters concerning it are It is an indisputable fact that I resolved, the Federal government conwas elected on the platform of the tinues to pay neighbouring Bayelsa People’s Democratic Party - a conglom- State the revenues meant for Rivers eration of several individuals with dif- State in a classic case of robbing Peter ferent ideals but with a goal of edging to pay Paul. It is indeed noteworthy that out the military and ensuring a return we have made several representations to democratic rule. No one was under formally and informally on this matter. any illusion that this would be an easy Our chiefs and elders have attended task but that we have enjoyed an un- several meetings and protested this inprecedented 14 years of uninterrupted justice to no avail. As your governor encivilian dispensation is a demonstration trusted to keep guard over your comof how far we have come in our demo- mon wealth, we could not keep quiet cratic journey. and allow this grave injustice. For this However, the vestiges of military dic- reason, we have been vilified, threattatorship have also remained with us, ened and blackmailed but we insist on especially within the context of managContinues on page 53

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52—Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29,

2013

ANAMBRA GUBER SUPPLEMENTARY POLL:

•I cant be part of it —Ubah •Ekwunife clears hurdles against Obiano •Buhari, Tinubu, Akande, others lead APC in street march •IG re-assures on adequate security

BY OKEY NDIRIBE, KINGSLEY OMONOBI, EMMAN OVUAKPORIE, CHARLES KUMOLU & ENYIM ENYIM

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HE supplementary election to conclude the voting for the next governor of Anambra State is to take place tomorrow in 210 polling units across is local government areas of the state.

However, ahead of the poll, the Labour Party candidate, Chief Ifeanyi Ubah yesterday joined candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP Comrade Tony Nwoye and the All Progressives Congress, APC, Senator Chris Ngige in ruling out participation in the exercise.

Meanwhile, a potential judicial encumbrance against the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA candidate, Chief Willie

APC governorship candidate, Dr Chris Ngige casting his vote at Nkwor, Idemili south in Anambra, Nov 16 Sunday with 174,710 votes against the 94,956 votes garnered

by PDP’s Nwoye, 92,300 scored

by APC’s Ngige and 37,446 scored by Labour’s Ubah.

The controversies ahead of the polls nonetheless, the League of

,

Anambra State should never again be turned to a theatre of war. Violence is not an option. After all, the people have no other state than Anambra

Obiano was removed yesterday after his party rival, Rep. Uche Ekwunife withdrew a legal challenge on his validity as a candidate.

Mrs. Ekwunife who took second in the APGA gubernatorial primaries had taken Obiano to court challenging his validity on the basis that he registered twice during the voter’s registration exercise.

Tomorrow’s supplementary election follows malpractises and logistical constraints that derailed the conduct of the election in the affected polling units.

APGA candidate, Obiano was leading at the conclusion of the voting penultimate Saturday and

,

Anambra Professionals, LAP yesterday promised to work with whosever emerges the winner of the final election. Ekwunife in a statement yesterday said she was withdrawing the case due to pressure from family and friends and also, in the interest of the party. The statement read thus: “In deference to pressure from my family, my state Governor, friends, Colleagues, clergymen, royal fathers, well- wishers and the larger interest of our great party, the all Progressives Grand Alliance, I have instructed my lawyers to terminate forthwith, Duit Ni, GHC/ AWK/CS/ 281/ 2013, which we instituted at the Federal High Court, Awka.

“I also dissociate myself from

Anambra State PDP governorship candidate, Tony Nwoye, searching for his name on the voters’ register at ward 2 Nsugbe

all other suits in any form or colour against our party candidate, Chief Willie Obiano, by any person or persons, group or groups before now or in the future. May I use this opportunity to affirm my loyalty to our governor, the National Chairman of our great party, our candidate, Chief Willie Obiano and the APGA family.”

Affirming his withdrawal from the election, Ubah, the Labour Party candidate in a statement, yesterday, alleged that the previous exercise was mismanaged by INEC.

Supplementary election A statement by Mr. Emmanuel Ibeleme, a member of the Ifeanyi Ubah Campaign Organisation said: “Labour Party will not take part in the supplementary election which the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said it would hold on Saturday, November 30, 2013. It has become absolutely necessary to issue this statement which is a final clarification on the matter.

“So, all our members, all our supporters, all our associates, all our friends, all our admirers and all our sympathisers are by this statement informed that the Labour Party (LP) does not have anything to do with the supplementary election which INEC, contrary to reasons, said it would be holding on Saturday, November 30, 2013.”

It further said, “this has been the consistent position of both the Labour Party and Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, the governorship candidate in the mismanaged and mishandled, generally accepted flawed governorship election of Saturday, November 16, 2013. The reasons for our position have been well canvassed at all respectable fora

A youth corps member counting results at Awka South Ward 002 and need not be restated here.

However, this final statement is a restatement of our consistent position.”

Meanwhile the League of Anambra Professionals, LAP, has stated that it would work with whoever emerges the eventual winner of the election, even as it urged voters to turnout for the exercise. The group in a statement by its National President Mr. Willy Nzewi said, “against the backdrop of INEC’s decision to hold a supplementary election, we the League of Anambra Professionals, a nonpartisan body for the development of Anambra State, want the electorate to go out and vote peacefully for the candidate of their choice in the supplementary election.

Complaints of irregularities Though there were complaints of irregularities by some of the gubernatorial candidates and their political parties, some other political parties described the election as free and fair.

“Anambra State should never again be turned to a theatre of war. Violence is not an option.

After all, the people have no other

state than Anambra.’’

Meanwhile, the candidate of the Africa Democratic Congress, ADC in the governorship election, Chief Anayo Arinze, yesterday, called on his party and supporters to shun the call for the outright cancellation of the last election and participate fully at the poll. He said, “Given INEC declaration of the November 16 governorship election in the state as inconclusive, we in ADC believe that only a supplementary election will afford the disenfranchised voters another opportunity to exercise their civic responsibility.”

He declared that, “the call for outright cancellation of Anambra State governorship election is evil, mischievous and unpatriotic and should be ignored by all well meaning citizens”.

Buhari, Tinubu, Akande, other APC leaders in street march Leaders of the All Progressives Congress APC, yesterday, stormed the streets of Abuja in protest against the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to hold supplementary governorship election in Anambra State tomorrow. The party had earlier called for the cancellation of the

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013—53

Why I defected, by Gov Rotimi Amaechi Continues from page 51 discharging our responsibility to you, no matter the odds.

•A second instance is the total absence of federal presence in Rivers State. The “national good governance tour” provided a good opportunity for the Federal Government to showcase its presence in Rivers State. The tour, if nothing else, was evident that there was not much to show for in a state that is the cash cow of the federation. The East-West road remains abandoned, work has been deliberately slow on the Port Harcourt International Airport, the third busiest airport in the country, while all airports started along with it have long been completed and commis-

Rivers State

Photos: Akpokona Omafuaire and Nath Onojake.

entire election due to what they claimed as wide-spread irregularities which allegedly characterized the exercise held penultimate Saturday.

The APC procession was led by leaders of the party, including: the National Chairman Chief Bisi Akande; former military Head of State, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari; former governor of Lagos State, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and former governor of old Abia State, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu. Other notable members of the party who participated in the protest were the Senate Minority Leader, Senator George Akume and his deputy, Senator Ahmed Sani, Senator Kabiru Gaya, former governor of Ogun State, Olusegun Osoba and the former governor of Ekiti State, Otunba Niyi Adebayo.

Armoured personnel carriers The protest which commenced from the party’s national secretariat at Blantyre Street, Wuse 2, moved through Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent and was stopped some distance from the INEC headquarters in Maitama. Heavily armed policemen, soldiers equipped with Armoured Personnel Carriers barricaded the street leading to the headquarters to stop the procession.

After they were stopped, Akande said they led the procession to protest against INEC’s handling of recent elections in Anambra and Delta states. He said: “We are here to say no to rigging. We have come here to hand over our petition to the leadership of INEC. We demand the cancellation of the last governorship election

held in Anambra State. We reject the supplementary election scheduled to hold tomorrow because of the wide-spread irregularities which took place during the first exercise held two weeks ago”. Other leaders of the party including Gen. Buhari, Tinubu and Onu spoke along the same line.”

IG charges officers to remain politically neutral Rising from a strategic security meeting with members of the Force Management Team, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP MD Abubakar, yesterday, assured Nigerians of the readiness of the Force to ensure adequate provision of security in and around Anambra State in tomorrow’s supplementary election in some parts of the State Speaking after a strategic security meeting with members of the Force management team in Abuja, he promised citizens of the state that earlier security arrangements for the November 16 guber election were still in place, noting that the Force will continue to maintain its optimal presence in the State until the successful conclusion of the election.

The IG called on personnel of the Force and other security agencies to rededicate themselves and be truly committed towards ensuring a seamless and hitch free conduct of the supplementary election.

A statement signed by Force Public Relations officer, CSP Frank Mba, said the “IG charged the officers and men to remain steadfast, focused and neutral and exhibit the highest level of professionalism in the course of discharging their duties both during and after the period of the elections in the state”.

sioned. The Bonny-Bomu road that leads to the only functional liquefied natural gas project remains uncompleted.

In the midst of all these, our administration went ahead to fix federal roads to the tune of N103 billion. Several representations and letters after, not one kobo has been repaid.

•The Federal Government is actively discouraging investments in Rivers State.

Councils of universities The Minister of Petroleum has refused to allow the commencement of train seven of the NLNG that would have provided tens of thousands of jobs insisting that investors should go and invest in the Brass NLNG project rather than in the train seven project.

•When boards and other appointments are considered at the federal level, Rivers State is treated with levity. Out of the councils of universities, no Rivers person was found worthy of becoming a university council chairman.

•Internal party democracy has been sacrificed on the alter of personal greed and injustice as the Rivers State chapter of the PDP is being run by persons who neither collected forms nor indicated interest in running for office while the legitimate holders of the office are left in the cold.

Our several representations and pleas on this matter to the party leadership at the highest levels have gone unheeded and unanswered. We are left in a quandary and have been denied the appropriate support to lead our party in line with acceptable democratic norms. The result of this is that politicians with questionable antecedents now hijack the PDP in Rivers State.

Given the foregoing, it has become clear to us that we will be unable to achieve our goals and aspirations as a people under the People’s Democratic Party as it is presently constituted. Our quest for a democracy where the people would remain the focus of government and governance is bound to suffer a stillbirth under the present arrangement. We are Nigerians and people of the Niger Delta, but we are also Rivers people and live in Rivers State. We are concerned that our well-being is not central to the leadership of the PDP. We do not find this satisfactory.

We have, therefore, decided that it is in our best interest that we move to a party that shares the hopes and aspirations of our people and realizes and recognizes our right to exist and be treated as equal partners in our democracy. We are not and will not allow ourselves to be treated as a second rate poor cousin. We are equal stakeholders and daresay major contributors to the common wealth.

It is this mindset that will inform our action in the coming days. We will of course consult with all our stakeholders as we try to fashion out a way forward for us and for our people. We are convinced that as always you will trust our commitment to your mandate and to your service. Finally, let me reaffirm my commitment to the emancipation of the long-suffering people of Niger Delta. I know their pains because I have lived it and I live it everyday. But let me also say that the pursuit of politics of selfinterest at the expense of development is not the best way of ensuring justice and equity for the region.

Drafting the police to cause confusion in Rivers State is not more urgent than completing the East-West Road or bringing in investments that will create jobs and prosperity for our people. To the good people of Rivers State, we are grateful for your trust and will not treat it with levity. We promise you that as always, you will be our primary concern and our priority.

Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, CON, Governor, Rivers State

54 — V anguard anguard,, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

B-R-I-E-F-S US warns airlines against crossing China air zone

T

Mali’s parliamentary poll goes into run-off M

ALI’s three main political parties secured just 16 seats out of 147 available in the first round of a parliamentary election, provisional results revealed.

The election, which took place last Sunday amid low turnout and some voting abuses, was meant to complete the West African country’s transition back to democracy after a coup last year led to an Islamist takeover of the north.

Militants were later driven out by a French-led invasion but pockets of resistance have remained.

The turnout in the election was 38.5 percent, Minister of Territorial Administration Moussa Sinko Coulibaly said on Wednesday.

Malians will vote again on December 15 in a second round in the constituencies where there was no majority winner. The party of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita, RPM, secured eight seats, according to party official Mahamadou Camara.

Keita’s losing presiden-

T

•Malian electoral officers accrediting voters in the first parliamentary election. tial rival, Soumaila Cisse, secured his own seat in Timbuktu and his party won five others, while a third party, Adema-PASJ, took two seats.

In total, some 1,087 candidates from 410 electoral lists competed for the 147 parliamentary seats. The vote is being closely

P

OPE Francis yester day named his top assistant to look into the work of two commissions of inquiry he set up last summer to investigate the finances of the troubled Vatican bank and Holy

•Cameron thing UKIP says could lead to millions of new migrants. “The EU of today is very different from the EU of 30 years ago,” he wrote in an article for the Financial Times.

“We need to face the fact that free movement has become a trigger for vast

See administration.

A Vatican statement said papal secretary Monsignor Alfred Xuereb will be Francis’ delegate, “keeping his eye on the committees and keeping him in-

population movements caused by huge disparities in income. That is extracting talent out of countries that need to retain their best people and placing pressure on communities.”

Cameron said he planned to change British law so that new EU migrants would have to wait three months before they could obtain unemployment benefits.

Newcomers would not be eligible for housing benefits and would lose the right to unemployment benefits after six months unless they proved they had a realistic chance of finding work.

formed in collaboration with the secretariat of state on their working procedures and possible initiatives.”

The Vatican spokesman, the Rev. Federico Lombardi, said the aim was purely to smooth communication between the pope and the commissions as they intensify their work ahead of meetings between the pope and his eight cardinal advisers.

But the move appears to create a new filter between the commissions and the pope that could raise questions about their independence: Originally, these experts were supposed to report directly to the pope and present him with recommendations.

Thursday’s statement suggests the Malteseborn Xuereb and the Vatican’s powerful secretariat of state will be the pope’s main points of reference for the work of the independent commissions.

Church of England proposes ‘blessings’ for gay marriages ships under long-awaited growing tension over the

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HURCH of England clergy would be able to “bless” same-sex relation-

China sends warplanes into air defence zone zone, the Xinhua agency

HINA said it sent warplanes into its newly declared maritime air defense zone yesterday, just days after the U.S., South Korea and Japan defied warnings not to send flights through the airspace in the East China Sea. China’s air force sent several fighter jets and an early warning aircraft on normal air patrols in the

watched by donors which have pledged $3.25 billion to rebuild the impoverished country and bring stability back to the lawless north.

Pope orders audit of Vatican's account

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C

territorial standoff between Beijing and Tokyo, which both claim the contested islands.

“We’re attempting to determine whether the new rules apply to civil aviation, commercial air flight,” Jen Psaki, US State Department spokesperson, said on Wednesday.

“In the meantime, US air carriers are being advised to take all steps they consider necessary to operate safely in the East China Sea region.”

Thai PM seeks end to strike

UK, EU clash over migrant benefits RIME Minister David Cameron unveiled plans to limit European Union migrants’ access to welfare in Britain and said he wanted eventually to restrict migrants from poorer EU states relocating to richer ones, stirring a row with the European Commission.

Cameron’s Conservatives risk seeing their vote split at European elections next year and at a national election in 2015 by the anti-immigration UK Independence Party (UKIP) and he is under pressure from his own party to get tough on the issue.

Trailing in opinion polls, Cameron said he shared deep concerns about a possible influx of Romanians and Bulgarians next year when EU restrictions on those two countries expire, some-

HE US has advised its commercial airlines to take all necessary safety precautions when flying over a group of small, disputed islands in the East China Sea. The announcement came amid a diplomatic row over China’s newly declared air defence zone there.

China demanded over the weekend that aircraft submit flight plans to Chinese officials when traversing the zone, raising the stakes in a

reported, citing air force spokesman Shen Jinke.

The report did not specify exactly when the flights were sent or whether they had encountered foreign aircraft. The United States, Japan and South Korea have said they have sent flights through the zone without encountering any Chinese response since Beijing announced the creation of the zone last week.

proposals unveiled on Thursday as the church adopts a more open - but disputed - approach to homosexuality.

Although gay couples would still not be able to legally marry in a church, the proposed change would officially sanction clergy to let gay and lesbian couples markandcelebratesame-sex marriages and civil partnerships in a church service.

Critics swiftly condemned the “blessing” proposal as contrary to the church’s teaching on sexual conduct.

The proposal was among 18recommendationsputforward by a working group set up two years ago amid

church’s approach to gay worshippers and clergy but could take up to two years of discussions before becoming policy.

Acknowledging the issue wasdivisive,groupchairman Joseph Pilling said the church needed to reflect rapid changes in society as senior clergy express fears of a looming crisis, with falling attendance rates and failure to attract young people.

This year, parliament introduced new laws to allow gay marriages from 2014 after legalizing civil partnerships in 2005 and the church dropped its ban on gay clergy in civil partnerships becoming bishops.

HAILAND’s prime minister, Yingluck Shinawatra, has call for an end to street protests in the country after she survived a no-confidence vote in parliament where her party holds a commanding majority, but faces mounting pressure from widening anti-government protests.

Hours later, on yesterday, she appealed to protesters to end their sit-ins at ministry buildings across the capital,

Bangkok. “I propose to protesters to stop protesting and leave government offices so the civil service can move forward,” she said. ”The government does not want confrontation and is ready to cooperate with everybody to find a solution.” Demonstrators responded to her call by cutting the power to the country’s national police headquarters, showing tha the vote was unlikely to end the biggest anti-government protests since deadly political unrest three years ago.

Karzai risks isolation over refusal to sign US security deal

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RESIDENT Hamid Karzai’s stubborn refusal to sign a pact that would keep thousands of U.S. troops in Afghanistan after 2014 is a high-risk gamble that Washington will give in to his demands, one that has left him isolated as the clock runs down on his presidency.

Diplomats said he may have over-played his hand, raising the risk of a complete U.S. withdrawal from the insurgency-plagued country where Western troops have fought Taliban

militants for the past 12 years. It also risks a backlash at home by critics who believe he is playing a dangerous game with the country’s future security.

But Karzai softened some of his demands on a security agreement with the United States governing the future of American troops in the country— even as concerns grew among Afghans and the country’s military, which would be hard hit if his failure to sign leads to a U.S. Withdrawal.

In-fighting threatens Somalia's war anti-terror war

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ITTER divisions between Somalia’s top leaders threaten internationally-backed efforts to battle Al-Qaeda-linked insurgents and end decades of anarchy in the war-torn nation, experts warn.

Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdon, who has been in office for just over a year, is facing a confidence vote in parliament this week after he resist-

ed President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s demand that he resign.

The precise cause of the power struggle is unclear, but politicians have pointed to wrangling over alleged corruption, personal loyalties as well as Somalia’s complex clan politics, where each community expects to be represented in the corridors of power.

Kerry to visit Middle East, Moldova

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S Secretary of State John Kerry will travel to Jerusalem and Ramallah next week to discuss Israeli-Palestinian peace and to consult Israeli officials about Iran, the State Department has announced.

During his trip from December 3 to December 6, Kerry will attend an annual meeting of NATO foreign ministers in Brus-

sels and will become the first secretary of State to visit Moldova in more than two decades.

Kerry had planned to visit Israel last week but postponed the trip and traveled instead to Geneva, where six major powers and Iran reached an interim agreement that would constrain the Iranian nuclear program in return for limited sanctions relief.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013—55

AGM—From left: Mr. Alfred Okoigun, Group Managing Director, Arco Petrochemical Engineering Co. Plc; Chief Joseph Akpieyi, Chairman and Dennis Ayisire, Company Secretary, during the 31st Annual General Meeting of the company, yesterday, in Lagos. Photo: Bunmi Azeez.

FG to ASUU: Resume or get sacked Continues from page 4

FG ultimatum a joke— lecturers Some university lecturers said that the Federal Government directive on the reopening of federal universities, which also directed other members of staff to resume by Dec. 4 or be sacked, was a joke. They spoke in separate telephone interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.

In his reaction to the directive, Dr Oghenekaro Ogbinaka, Chairman, University of Lagos branch of ASUU, said that the development was strange and laughable.

He said that this was so considering the fact that the union was yet to get back to the government, after their deliberations with President Goodluck Jonathan. “Our reaction is simple. Let us just wait for the seven days to come around.

What government has just done shows that they were not committed in the offer they made with the union that had the Trade Union Congress President and the Minister of Labour in attendance. We are not going to fall to that blackmail.

Now, which one is better, government acceding to our demands or issuing out threats?

“Honestly, this whole

thing ought to have been easily resolved, given the approach taken by President (Goodluck) Jonathan, but it is like we want to be taken for granted after all and it is unfair,” he said.

Professor Oyelowo Oyewo, immediate past Dean, Faculty of Law, University of Lagos, simply described the development as “a glorified joke and laughable”.

Oyewo noted that it was funny that one of the parties which had before now been holding dialogue, would try to intimidate the other .

“I see this whole thing as a joke and I dare say it is not even worth my comments. We just keep our fingers crossed and watch. I still emphasise that such ultimatum is a display of insensitivity and a huge joke.”

Also commenting on the government directive, Professor Sat Obiyan, Head of Department of Political Science, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, said that the ultimatum was not the best approach to resolving the issue.

He, however, said that the threat might achieve some success because some lecturers would resume for fear of losing their jobs, but it would not end the crisis in the education sector.

Obiyan said however, that it was unfortunate that the strike was allowed to linger for so long.

“Nigerians are worried over the situation; the prolonged strike is not good for the education system in the country, but the Federal Government’s approach now is not the best.

ASUU used to threats “What is required is little understanding by both parties to agree on something and end the strike without aggravating it. It is not a new thing for the Federal Government to threaten ASUU members with sack; it was done in 1996 by the late Sani Abacha.

“For the university system to work perfectly, you need all the personnel and not few lecturers on ground to teach,“ he said.

Obiyan urged the Federal Government to have a rethink and implement the agreement reached with the union.

He also urged ASUU to give the Presidency the benefit of doubt that the agreement would be implemented, given the President’s intervention which saw him leading the government delegation at the last negotiation.

Also, Dr Yinka Ajala, Head, Department of Geography, Obafemi Awolowo University, IleIfe, said that the threat would ignite more problems in the education

system.

Ajala said that threatening lecturers with sack should not be a weapon for the Federal Government.

He said that the ASUU executive was being careful with the agreement reached with the Federal Government before suspending the strike.

“What ASUU is asking for is not too much, they want government to show some commitment with the agreement. Government can only force few lecturers to resume but not all, even if the vicechancellors open registers in the institutions.

“The sack threat is a tactic that will not work; it has been used by the military in the past, so it is not new to us. I do not think this is the way government should handle the strike, it will not solve the problem,“ he said.

The Coordinator of Education Right Campaign (ERC), Mr Hassan Soweto, said that the ultimatum would only worsen the problem, noting that it was against the principle of public bargaining. What ASUU wants is some level of commitment from the Federal Government before it will suspend the strike. It is not right for the government to use force in a democracy,“ he said.

Meanwhile, Mr Agbomeji Ibrahim, a student of Lagos State Uni-

versity, Ojo, urged the Federal Government not to be authoritative by giving lecturers one week to return to classes or face sack.

Ibrahim, who is a student unionist, said that there was a better approach to resolving the issue, rather than using a sack threat.

"Both the Government and ASUU need to accommodate each other on the negotiation table because both parties cannot get all their demands and must be ready to shift grounds", Ibrahim said.

ASUU’s Secretary, University of Abuja chapter, Abubakar Suleiman in his reaction said the conditions given by the union before the strike would be suspended were still real and insisted that the union would not compromise its stand on account of intimidation by government.

According to Suleiman, “the strike is still on and we are not going to call it off on account of intimidation. We are not raising any fresh demands, we only gave government conditions to ensure that our members who participated in the strike are not victimised.

Ekiti students embark on prayer sessions Meanwhile, students from Ekiti State, in tertiary institutions nation-

wide, embarked on marathon prayers and sought divine intervention to put an end to the strike action.

The students had converged on Lady Jibowu Hall, Ekiti Government House where they held the prayer session, yesterday. The session had in attendance, the state’s Deputy Governor, Prof essorModupe Adelabu and some clerics. Mrs Adelabu in her remarks cautioned the students against taking to the streets and engaging in illegal acts that could lead to violence and disruption of peace in the state.

The Deputy Governor noted that the students did the right thing by taking their petition before God. She said it was unfortunate that both parties to the dispute – ASUU and the Federal Government – remained adamant despite interventions from well-meaning Nigerians.

She then urged the students not to relent in their regular prayer for divine intervention, saying that the death of Prof Festus Iyayi, a frontline ASUU member in an auto-crash along the Abuja-Lokoja Road introduced another twist to the lingering dispute.

Mrs Adelabu, who expressed the hope that the prayers of the students would yield the desired result in a matter of days, counselled the undergraduates against engaging in activities that could jeopardize their future.

N288bn spent on Abuja Airport, Kubwa roads — Bala Mohammed

BY HENRY UMORU

A

BUJA —MINIS TER of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, Senator Bala Mohammed, yesterday, disclosed that a total sum of N288 billion has been spent on the rehabilitation and expansion of the Umaru Musa Yar ’Adua (Airport Road) and Murtala Muhammed (Kubwa Road) Expressways.

According to him, the projects have so far been funded through a bond floated by the Debt Management Office (DMO) to showcase what he described as the Transformation Agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan.

Speaking, yesterday,

while addressing delegates to the 3rd Capital Market Committee Annual Retreat at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, the Minister said: “Other physical infrastructures that are either completed or at an advanced stage include B6 & B12 Circle Road; Complementary Engineering Infrastructure at the FCC stage II; Extension of Inner Southern Expressway (ISEX) from the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX); Construction of Southern Parkway to Ring Road I; Construction of 33 KVA line, water line from Kukwaba Injection substation to Abuja Technology Village”.

56—Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

23-yr-old man charged with stabbing barman

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AGOS — THE police, yesterday, arraigned a 23-year-old man, Damilola Aderemi, who allegedly stabbed a barman in Ifako Gbagada, Lagos.

The accused is facing a two-count charge of malicious damage and assault before a Yaba Magistrates’ Court.

The prosecutor, Inspector Chris Takim, told the court that the accused used a broken bottle to stab Mr Victor Oluwafemi, a worker of the BamBam’s Event on November 17 at Ifako Gbagada.

Takim said the accused entered BamBam’s Event premises with a broken bottle and stabbed the barman on the lips and stomach.

He said Oluwafemi was still receiving treatment in a hospital.

The prosecutor also told the court that Aderemi destroyed musical instruments and bottles with contents.

The prosecutor said that the damaged property, valued at N365,350, belonged to the organisation.

He said that the reason for the outrage of the accused was unknown .

Takim said the offences contravened Sections 244 and 349 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

The accused, however, pleaded not guilty, and was granted bail in the sum of N100, 000 with two sureties in like sum.

The Magistrate, Chief Bola Folarin-Williams, adjourned the case till December 19 for mention.

From left: Mr Wale Ewumi, CEO, Trends Continental Ltd; Baba Omojola`s son, Akinola; Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, award recipient, dedicating the recognition award for human rights protection, to late Comrade Baba Omojola; Baba Omojola’s daughter, Eyinade and Ms Tewa Onasanya, Publisher, Exquisite magazine.

Time line on ASUU strike J

ULY 1, 2013: ASUU began a nationwide strike over alleged Federal Government’s refusal to implement the agreement between it and the union over unpaid entitlements.

August 6: The Federal Government team led by Benue State

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BUJA — SPECIAL Advis er to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr Reuben Abati, has denied reports that a presidential jet was used to bring Asari Dokubo to Abuja after he was released by Benin Republic police.

In an interview in Abuja, yesterday, Dr Abati said: “There is no truth in the report that a presidential jet was used to convey Asari Dokubo. Again, what we see here is the attempt by people to just tell lies and try to package lies as the truth.

“I have read some reports in which they said “unconfirmed reports indicate.”

“Nobody has been able to say anything categorically and I think it is very sad that peo-

the Federal Government ended without a resolution of the crisis.

August 20: Jonathan met with the Federal Government’s officials engaged in the negotiation with ASUU at the Presidential Villa, decided to lead

Why I resigned as SURE-P chairman — Kolade

BY CALEB AYANSINA

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BUJA —THE Chairman of Subsidy Re-investment and Empowerment Programme, SURE-P, Dr Christopher Kolade, yesterday, explained why he resigned from the agency, saying it had nothing to do with the allegation of the missing N500 billion SURE-P fund.

Presidential jet not used to convey Dokubo to Abuja — Abati

BY BEN AGANDE

Governor, Dr. Gabriel Suswam had a failed meeting with ASUU officials at the office of the SGF as the teachers insisted on the implementation of the 2009 ASUU/FGN agreement.

August 18: Meeting between striking university lecturers and

ple, in an attempt to just play politics with anything at all, will start packaging lies hoping that gullible persons will believe them.

“An aircraft is not a ghost in the air. The movement of any aircraft is properly documented and people will see the aircraft if it lands anywhere, particularly the presidential aircraft.

“Nobody can come up with any evidence that any presidential jet was sent to Benin Republic. I can tell you that President Jonathan did not send any presidential jet to Benin Republic.

“Or has Asari Dokubo told anybody that he was brought to Nigeria in a presidential jet?

So what is this all about?

Blackmail and mischief, obviously.”

Kolade, who made the clarification in an interactive forum with newsmen in Abuja, noted that he threw in the towel on health grounds.

He said: “I am now old and I need to wind down some activities that take some of my energy. By next month, I will be 81, so you don’t blame me for not having youthful energy at the age of 81.”

Kolade explained that in his resignation letter to President Goodluck Jonathan dated September 25, there was never any allegation on ground to warrant his forceful withdrawal as the chairman of the committee.

The resignation letter dated September 25 and entitled “Withdrawal from Chairmanship of the SUREP Committee” read: “I wish to inform you, respectfully, of my decision to resign from the position of Chairman of the SURE-P Committee.

“My desire is that the resignation should take effect as soon as Mr. President names a new chairman, but not later than the end of November 2013.

“Mr. President, it has been a worthwhile experience for me to serve as chairman since the inauguration of the committee in February 2012.

“However, as I approach my 81st birthday, I wish to retire from the more time and

energy consuming parts of my responsibilities and activities, one of which is the SURE-P Committee chairmanship.

“Mr. President, please accept my sincere thanks and appreciation for the opportunity to serve in the position of chairman as well as my prayers for good progress and success for Nigeria in the years ahead.”

Kolade further explained that the subsidy money was shared among the three tiers of government, with the Federal Government taking 41 per cent, 54 per cent went to state and local governments, while the remaining five per cent is to be used for ecological project.

He said the 41 per cent of the money that belonged to the Federal Government is N300 billion, and that the committee had accounted for it before the Senate committee.

According to him, the alleged missing N500 billion was shared by the state and local governments, and that, those that were spreading the rumour were aware of it.

He said: “The person that raised this is deliberately saying it. There is a report to clarify this. The report that fund is missing is nothing but to hit up the polity.”

Kolade, therefore, urged the media to cross check issues before publication.

another negotiation with the leadership of the union.

August 20: FG approves N400 billion for infrastructural development in Nigerian universities.

Aug 20: ASUU threatened to pull out from the Presidential Committee on the Implementation of the Committee of Needs Assessment of Nigeria public Universities, CNANU. August 23: The Federal Government reached agreement with ASUU to deploy N100 billion for the provision of infrastructure on campuses of 61 universities covered in the needs assessment .

August 28: National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) issued a one-week ultimatum to the Federal Government and the union’s leadership to resolve their differences or face serious consequences.

October 24: Senate mandated its leadership to wade into ASUU strike by meeting the Federal Government and the ASUU executives November 4: Senate President, Senator David Mark met with the leadership of ASUU, but no resolution to end strike.

November 5: President Goodluck Jonathan in 13-hour marathon meeting with the leadership of ASUU in conjunction with representatives of the NLC and TUC. November 12: Prof. Festus Iyayi, former ASUU President died on his way for ASUU meeting in Kano.

November 23: ASUU NEC members agreed that before calling off its strike government should pay the four-month salary arrears being owed varsity lecturers.

November 26: Management of Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki resolved to reopen the school after ASUU fails to call off strike.

November 26: Committee of ProChancellors of Federal Universities called for the immediate reopening of all shut down universities across the country.

November 28: Federal Government gives ASUU ultimatum to call off strike in one week or face expulsion.

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 — 57

Presidency slams Lai Mohammed over attack on amnesty for N/Delta militants

BY SONI DANIEL, Regional Editor, North

T

HE PRESIDENCY, yesterday, berated the interim National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Alhaji Lai Mohammed for dismissing its amnesty programme for repentant Niger Delta militants as a drainpipe.

The APC spokesman had on a national television programme last Wednesday derided the amnesty programme currently being implemented by the Federal Government, VISIT: National Coordinator, Transformation Agenda Solidarity Forum,TASOF, saying it amounted to a sheer waste of national Mr. Aliyu Ibrahim, in handshake with Governor Isa Yuguda, during courtesy resources and energy, having failed to curb visit to Government House, Bauchi. militancy, oil theft and pipeline vandalisation.

Mohammed’s verbal attack on the programme came barely six weeks after a similar assault by the National Leader of the APC, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu, who also wrote off the amnesty exercise as a waste.

But the Presidency in a all over the continent where sustainable. That is why I have response to the attack, said

BY HUGO ODIOGOR AND Mohammed was economical with fighting corruption is not an easy put in policies to ensure that CHARLES KUMOLU the truth and had deliberately task “because it had become Malawi does not become an refused to acknowledge the entrenched,” but she insisted example of a failed nation. I am ALAWI’S PRESIDENT, wonders brought about by the achieving this by reducing that “someone has to do it.”

Mrs. Joyce Banda, faithful implementation of the poverty, dependence on donor The Malawian President was amnesty package by Presidential yesterday, called on African agencies and running of an in Lagos as the keynote speaker Amnesty Office, PAO, headed by leaders to summon the political at the 14 Anyiam Osigwe Lecture inclusive government.” will and courage to fight and Kingsley Kuku.

Also speaking chairman of the entitled, ‘Genuine Democracy: The statement signed by the defeat corruption, in order to event, Professor Ibrahim Gambari The Price and the Prize,’ at the Head of Media and deepen the dividends of Nigerian Institute of International said: “Our long standing quest Communications of the PAO, Mr. democracy and advance the for the progressive development Affairs, NIIA, Lagos.

Daniel Alabrah, said it was only development of the continent. of Nigeria and indeed the African those suffering from the twin According to Mrs. Banda: The second elected female continent, the theme for the 2013 malaise of amnesia and “Anyiam Osigwe Foundation lecture is apt for the season. diarrhoea that would fail to see President in Africa said she is recognises leadership that “Some two decades after after prepared to stake her life and the success of the programme, focuses on wholesome police African countries began the which was initiated by the late political career in fighting that can uplift nations. I share process of restoring multi-party Umaru Musa Yar ’Adua corruption in Malawi where the the sentiments of the late Anyiam politics and democratically culture of graft has become administration in 2009.

Osigwe. Democracy and good elected governments founded on Alabrah, who acknowledged endemic and entrenched by a leadership are important constitutional order, citizens’ the rising incidence of oil theft in few members of the privileged foundations for good leadership rights and the rule of law, the the Niger Delta, however, group at the expense of the larger to thrive. When it is responsive exonerated the former militants society. time is right for us to engage in there can be economic growth. from the act, blaming it on what some stocktaking.”

According to her, the She said: “Democracy that does he called “international Professor Gambari said the experience of Malawi is replete not carry its people along is not syndicates.” fight against corruption must include punishment for those who were implicated in acts of corruption in Nigeria.

He said: “Such an exercise would enable us to access the quality of our efforts with a view to deepening the roots of said: “ As much as possible there Minister of Trade and Investment

BY BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE are structures to be put in place. has been working assiduously and democratic governance across You are all aware there are no trying to put finishing touches to our continent.”

HE MUCH awaited trading We ask ourselves the kinds of shortcomings when it comes to the work. academy on the newly infrastructure, we are ensuring “I want to assure this gathering hard questions about the road we adopted International Financial that as much as possible within that before December 31, the work have travelled, what experience Reporting Standards, IFRS, will the first quarter of next year, we would have been concluded. This has meant for our people in terms take off first quarter of next. would be starting the IFRS would be followed by a of their lived experiences and Chairman, Governing Council, Academy in Abuja. presentation to stakeholders, and what alternatives are available to Financial Reporting Council, “There are basic things that after this it would be submitted to us for forging ahead with even FRC, Hajia Maryam Ibrahim needed to be put in place, and the Federal Executive Council for greater determination to build disclosed this in Lagos at a press we have done that. We have approval. And then Nigeria would and sustain just, stable, briefing. registered the IFRS as a join the countries that have a prosperous and democratic It would be recalled that the company limited by guarantee, single code of corporate nations.” implementation of IFRS and with that we are going to governance,” she said.

Continuing, he said; “ For all commenced in Nigeria in 2012. put forward the board of trustees, Ibrahim pointed out that the challenges we have faced in The IFRS Academy is part of and after that the academy will ensuring that financial statements measures to help companies start. are prepared and presented in this country and as a people and build the capacity needed for Ibrahim also disclosed that compliance with international these are many and must not be effective implementation of work would soon be concluded standards has become critical in diminished. There are some International Financial Reporting. on the proposed Hamonised view of the clamour for foreign parameters which have become Though expected to take off this Code of Corporate Governance investment in the country, adding an enduring part of our political year, Ibrahim said that it was for corporate bodies in the that this is the focus of the work of culture and which ought always delayed to ensure basic country, saying, “the steering the newly inaugurated board of to be remembered and structures were put in place. She celebrated.” committee put in place by the the council.

President Banda wants African leaders to defeat corruption now zAs Gambari calls for inclusive leadership

M

IFRS Academy to commence operations next year-Financial Reporting Council

T

‘I’m worried about judgments delivered by our judges’

R

ETIRED JUSTICE of the Supreme Court, Justice George Oguntade has expressed his worries on judgments delivered by some judges in the country, arguing that several of them were not doing the job in accordance with the law and their conscience.

The justice of the apex court who chaired the public presentation of a book, ‘Landmark Judgments,’ a compilation of some of the notable pronouncements of the Chief Judge of Lagos State, Justice Ayotunde Phillips, noted that the system under which the judges work is “oppressive.”

To this end, he charged them “to fear God in the discharge of their duties.”

Chinese authorities confiscate 10,000 Nigeria bound fake clippers

BY BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

W

AHL CLIPPER Corporation and Chinese authorities have raided the factory of Yongkang Wonderful Electrical Appliance Company, which specialises in producing fake clippers exported to Nigeria.

“The exercise which resulted to confiscation of 10,000 Nigeria bound fake clippers was conducted in conjunction with the Jinghua Municipal Administration for Industry and Commerce, and officials of the Yongkang Public Security Bureau,” WAHL said in a statement.

It was discovered that the orders for the fake clippers came from a Nigerian sponsored firm named Blue Diamond.

“A fraudulent authorisation letter signed by a Festus U. Mbisiogu of Blue Diamond Freight LLC China (“Blue Diamond”), was among the documents seized during the raid.”

58 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

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Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 — 59

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Mr. President, I present Gideon & Chibuisi

BY COMFORT OBI

A

SCARY but heart warming incident happened in Imo State on September 27, 2013. Two teenagers, Gideon Emenike and Chibuisi Nwafor, aged between 16 and 17 years, performed a feat which not only shocked their rural community of Umuchima Ubaha, Okigwe LGA, but the whole state. It also had the state Police Commissioner, Mohammed Katsina, scampering to the community. The teenagers launched a rocket, which both of them fabricated, into space.

Thirty minutes, and over five kilometres later, it crashed into the backyard of Augustine Eke, a pensioner. The sound was deafening.

And the villagers did an Usain Bolt.

The first report Katsina got was that a bomb, the handiwork of some hoodlums, had exploded in the area.

So, he went prepared. But on arrival, he was taken aback. Hoodlums were not at work. It was two gifted teenagers, putting their God-given talents into practice. Katsina described their action as “excessively reckless,” but noted: “It was an exercise into the world of science and technology by some adventurous, skillful, and intelligent young boys with incredible creativity.”

Secondary school graduates Here is the story of Gideon and Ndubuisi. The two are secondary school graduates who passed out in 2012. Due to financial constraints, they have not been able to go further.

The road to their feat, according to one of them, Gideon, who attended Federal Government College, Okigwe, started when he was still in school. While in SS1, he was asked to do a school project. He built a helicopter. In SS2, he built a rocket which he took to a national competition in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

He was adjudged the second best.

At another competition organised by the Society for Science and Technology, he again came second.

At an Olympiad competition, he also came second, and was told that he would represent Nigeria at a competition in Brazil. That never happened. His school principal, he said, called him one day and told him he was no longer going to be Nigeria’s representative. He holds it against the principal. “I still dont know why the principal cancelled the trip. This frustrated me somehow, but later, I picked up from where I dropped, and started again,” he says.

The courage to pick up and continue brought him in contact with Chibuisi Nwafor, a like-mind, with whom he launched the rocket. The two pooled their brains together.

Gideon: “That was how we planned to build a rocket and a satellite, and send it into space. It was an amateur satellite.” CP Katsina says simple components, including sugar and computer accessories, were used.

Mercifully, there was no casualty.

And mercifully, again, on deactivation, it was found it had no toxic or radioactive materials. But more heartwarming: The boys did not intend any mischief. They were just two President Goodluck Jonathan...challenge from adventurous Gideon Emenike and Chibuisi Nwafor young boys, driven by a zeal to excel. Gideon said he he is in the boarding house of one of was challenged that other countries the best secondary schools in Benin. were launching satellites into space. Before the Edo State offer, a Let me commend these two Foundation linked to the Osun State teenagers. What they did proves, just Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, had also in case anybody was doubting it, that offered him scholarship. And that’s raw talents abound in Nigeria. What for embarking on a dangerous Nigeria lacks is the will to put them adventure which dented Nigeria’s together and propel our country. image. Even his mum became a Nothing confirms this unwillingness celebrity, granting several interviews, than the deafening silence from both and asking the government to take the state and federal governments that over the welfare of his other children. has greeted the feat of the young boys. See? Now, compare him to these two That is why I thought the attention of President Goodluck Jonathan should teenagers from Imo who are truly be drawn to it. In drawing his attention gifted and have the potential of to the teenagers, I am protesting the putting Nigeria, positively, on the conspiracy of silence and wastage of world map. Nobody is publishing talents. This is a government which their photographs. Nobody is talking says it is hunting for gifted men and to them or show-casing them. women with very special attributes Nobody is celebrating them. It is as and yet.... These young boys are from if they don’t exist. It is as if they did Imo State, a state which its governor nothing. Where are the Imo State claims to have been investing in Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, education long before he became and his government? And where are governor. And yet.... So, how What they did proves, just in come neither the s t a t e case anybody was doubting it, government nor that raw talents abound in the federal Nigeria. What Nigeria lacks is the government has tried to locate will to put them together and these teenagers, propel our country ask them questions, and encourage them? Where is the the Federal Government and its Federal Ministry of Technology? Ministries for Education and Science Didn’t anybody in that ministry read and Technology? the story? Or, is it that the boys came For the records, there are many from the wrong state and/or the wrong Gideons and Chibuisis in part of the country? If the boys were Nigeria. Young people with raw from the South-west or the South- talents and a burning zeal to be of south, for example, would it have been use to their country. But nobody different? I think so. Here is why. cares. If these teenagers were armed In the South-South, ex-militants are robbers, kidnappers, thugs, cultists, being sent to different parts of the assassins or terrorists, somebody world, to some of the best schools, to would have taken note. put their talents into use. Some of Mr. President, I present to you them have been trained as pilots and these two gifted teenagers, Chikodi aeronautical engineers. And just a Chiadikobi Emenike and Chibuisi couple of months ago, a teenage Nwafor. They say they want to study stowaway on an Arik Air flight from aeronautical engineering. Gideon Benin Airport to the local wing of the throws a challenge. “If the federal Murtala Muhammed Airport government can sponsor us, we can was treated as a hero. For embarking take Nigeria to any level they want.” on a dangerous, criminal act, he I believe him. Take up the challenge, became an instant celebrity, and hero Mr. President. A directive from you (emphasis mine), with Edo State to the appropriate ministries will Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, and make them realise their dream. And the MD of FAAN George Uriesi, it will be for the good of our dear posing for photographs with him. He country, Nigeria. has since been granted scholarship •Obi is the Puslisher/Editor-infrom secondary to university level by Chief of The Source, a weekly the Edo State government. For now, Newsmagazine.

,

IBE—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Julie Queen Ibe, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Julie Queen David Atikami. All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and general public please take note.

,

60 — Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

How Michael Jackson killed himself — Murray, MJ’s doctor C

Self assured authority At a bulky 6ft 5in, Murray is a bear of a man, though he claims to have lost more than two stone in prison and says he feels ‘every one of my 60 years’. Despite his public disgrace, he has huge charm and the self-assured authority – some might say bombast – of a physician whose lucrative private practice turned over more than £2.3 million a year.

Jackson’s prediction to the doctor was, indeed, prophetic. Two weeks after their moving conversation, Murray stood over the singer’s skeletal body as his friend lay dead on a metal trolley in a hospital emergency room.

And in what he now calls the ‘utter nightmare’ that followed the King of Pop’s death, Murray was charged with giving the lethal injection of the anaesthetic propofol that caused Jackson’s heart to stop, found guilty of involuntary manslaughter, stripped of his medical licence and sentenced to four years in jail.

In a vivid and compelling exclusive interview with The Mail on Sunday, Murray opens what he calls the ‘floodgates of pain’ as he talks for the first time about his intimate friendship with Jackson: ‘You want to know how close we were? I held his penis every night to fit a catheter because

*Jackson

*Murray he was incontinent at night.’

HOW I TOLD THE CHILDREN THAT THEIR FATHER WAS DEAD ‘I found out the kids were at the hospital, they were in a room having pizza.

‘I called for a team of psychiatrists. We spoke briefly about whether, if the children wanted it, it would be OK for them to see their father? I walked into the room. Paris looked at me and said, “Daddy’s dead?” I said, “Yes.” ‘The children wailed. Paris cried, “I don’t want to be an orphan! I don’t want to be an orphan!” Mrs Jackson was there, La Toya was there, Jermaine was there, but I thought they acted cold.

‘I was so worried about those children, they had no relationship with their mother.

I didn’t know what to do. But Paris is a remarkable child. I have never seen such mettle in a child that age. On the day he died, she sought me out in the corridor. I felt as if Michael was talking through her.

She said, “My daddy died today. I know you did everything you could. If he didn’t survive I know it’s not because you didn’t do everything you could.”

‘It breaks my heart that those children are now without the one person who loved them more than anything. I loved those children. I would love to sit down with them and tell them how much I cared for their father but I worry that their minds have been poisoned against me.’

For more than five hours, in a voice still thick with the lilting tones of his native

Trinidad, in a faceless hotel room in southern California he tells about Michael’s perilous physical, mental and financial state and the singer’s secret addiction to prescription drugs.

And he describes in shocking detail the full horror of Jackson’s physical and mental descent ‘into the abyss’ as he fought to cope with the pressure of preparing for his This Is It comeback concerts at London’s O2 arena: ‘By the end, Michael Jackson was a broken man. I tried to protect him but instead I was brought down with him.’ Most poignantly, he talks about the tragic events of June 25, 2009, the last day of Michael’s Jackson’s life.

It is clearly a subject he still finds distressing. Murray’s eyes fill with tears. ‘This is so painful,’ he says stifling a sob. ‘It’s difficult when you ask me about Michael.

There’s a void in my heart, a lingering pain. I miss him every day.’

Murray says that when he first began working with Jackson in 2006, he had no idea that the superstar used propofol to help him sleep. But when he arrived in LA three years later to help him prepare for his comeback, he discovered that Michael had a per‘I would never have recommended sonal stash of it. ‘He told me there were propofol to Michael. But when I got doctors in Germany there he was on it – he called it “milk” – that gave it to him. I didn’t agree with this and he needed to get off it at all, but Michael wasn’t the kind of man you can say no to. Cemetery in Los Angeles.’

He would always find a way. So I acquired Murray has filed an appeal against his propofol and gave it to him over a two- conviction claiming, among other things, and-a-half month period as I weaned him that another doctor had been giving Jackoff it, which I finally achieved three days son vast amounts of demerol – an analgebefore he died. sic better known in this country as pethi‘He begged me for the drug because he dine – without his knowledge. wanted to sleep, because then he didn’t His contention – made public now for have to think. He was in crisis at the end the first time – is that Jackson was withof his life, filled with panic and misery. I drawing from demerol on the night he died would sit with him when he was on a and that, when Murray was out of the propofol drip. It’s a very fast-acting drug room, the singer got up and injected himthat disappears from the body quickly. self with a lethal dose of propofol after Fifteen minutes after the drug is adminis- Murray refused to give him the amount tered, it’s gone. I gave him very light, he had asked for. light sedation.’

He explains: ‘I had no idea Michael Surely, I ask, as a doctor who has sworn was getting demerol, which he had grown the Hippocratic Oath he had a duty of care to love over several decades. I’ve used to cause no harm to his patient? Surely, demerol in the emergency room. The maxigiving an addict the drug he craves broke mum is 75mg that I would use. Michael every basic rule of care? Murray’s was receiving as much as 300mg several demeanour changes. His body tenses and times a week. That night he just couldn’t he glares at me: ‘I would never have rec- sleep.” ommended propofol to Michael. But when

,

ONRAD Murray’s voice softens when he recalls the moment Michael Jackson reached out, clasped his hand and said in his soft falsetto voice: ‘There are only four people in my family now. Paris, Prince, Blanket and you, Dr Conrad.’

It was, the 60-year-old doctor recalls: ‘one of the happiest days of my life. This man who had been so lonely, who had spent so many long nights telling me about his pain and anguish, finally felt he could trust someone in his life apart from his children.

‘We were family. We loved each other as brothers.’

The remarkable exchange took place in Jackson’s private suite of five rooms on the second floor of his rented £60,000-amonth Beverly Hills mansion. It was an area closed to all except the singer’s three children and Dr Murray – his personal physician and private confidante.

Murray says: ‘Michael trusted no one.

The bed chamber smelled because he did not even let maids in there to clean. There were clothes strewn everywhere. Then he looked at me and said, “You know, for the rest of your life and my life our names will become inseparable.”

‘I asked him, “Michael, what do you mean?” and he smiled and said, “I am clairvoyant.” ’ Maybe he was. This brief but intense relationship has all but destroyed Murray’s life and almost certainly defines it.

The heart surgeon, released from prison three weeks ago after serving half of a fouryear sentence for killing pop superstar Jackson with an overdose of intravenous sedative, maintains he was not responsible for Jackson’s tragic death. And, in his firstever interview, he remains unrepentant.

‘I never gave Michael anything that would kill him,’ he says tersely. ‘I loved him. I still do. I always will.’

I got there he was on it – he called it “milk” – and he needed to get off it. I wanted to help my friend. Michael was not addicted to propofol but I’ve since discovered he was addicted to other drugs, given to him by other doctors and which I was not aware of.’

Jackson, he insists, ‘was in a terrible state’. His 5ft 11in frame had wasted away to little over nine stone, he was suffering from chills, insomnia and mood swings.

He would turn up to rehearsals late and complained to Murray his performance was ‘never more than 60 per cent’.

‘Michael was a decrepit man. He was frail. I had to force him to eat, to drink fluids. He always ate the same meal: rice and chicken. He was under enormous pressure. The children told him they were tired of living in hotels and rented places, but Michael was broke. He told me his only major asset, his ownership of the Beatles back catalogue of songs, had been “mortgaged up to the hilt”. He wanted to do the London shows and then buy a family home, probably in Vegas. But night after night he would tell me he didn’t feel he had the capacity to do it. He said, “They are working me like a machine”.

Murray claims executives from the London concert promoters AEG threatened his friend – a charge AEG denied in court.

‘They came to the house. They said, “This house – we pay for it. The popsicles the children are sucking on – we pay for them.

The nine security guards, we pay for them too. We pay for the toilet paper he wipes his a** on. If he doesn’t do these shows it’s over. He’s ruined. He doesn’t have a cent. He will be on Skid Row.” ’ On the day he died, the singer returned home from rehearsals at around 1am.

Murray says: ‘He was hysterical. He was begging me, “Please Dr Conrad, I need some milk so I can sleep.” This went on for hours. I believe his insomnia that night was caused by withdrawal from demerol.’

MICHAEL’S DEATH WISH ‘We talked about death and dying.

Michael told me he wanted to be cremated and scattered somewhere nice and warm, and we talked about the coral reef off the Turks and Caicos Islands.

‘He hated California because of the two child sex cases against him. His family ended up putting him in Forest Lawn

,

Vanguard, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013 — 61

C M Y K

62 —

Vanguard, FRIDAY NOVEMBER 29, 2013

NFF reconstitutes electoral committee, extends LMC tenure T

HE Nigeria Football Federation has reconstituted the NFF Electoral Committee and extended the tenure of members of the League Management Company for an additional year Rising from its General Assembly yesterday in Warri, Delta State, the Congress of the NFF also reconstituted its Appeals Committee and approved the promotion and relegation of teams as presented by the various Leagues: While expressing its heartfelt appreciation to the President Goodluck Jonathan, GCFR for his immense support and encouragement of NFF, which has spurred recent successes, the Congress appealed to President Jonathan to continue to give total support to the NFF for the Federation to

provide all our National Teams with adequate preparation ahead of major international competitions next year, particularly the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals in Brazil.

According to its communique issued by Sir Ephraim Chukwuemeka, the Chairman of the Communique Drafting Committee, “the General Assembly approved the dissolution of the NFF Electoral Committee, and its immediate reconstitution. The new NFF Electoral Committee is thus composed: Mr. Amaju Pinnick, Mr. Amoni Biambo; Mr. Prince Elube; Mr. Charles Nwokocha, Professor Musa Garba; Mr. Patrick Pascal; Professor Omolawon Kayode; Barr. Samson Ebombe; Dr. Sanusi Mohammed (Secretary); Barr. Joshua Onoja

•Bale

ARETH Bale believes Real Madrid have all it takes to end a 12-year Champions League title drought as they cruised into the last 16 with a 4-1 win over Galatasaray on Wednesday.

Nine-time winners Madrid made light of Sergio Ramos’ sending off midway through the firsthalf as Bale opened the scoring with sumptuous dipping free-kick from 35 yards to put the hosts in front.

Madrid’s victory was even more impressive as it was achieved without

F

IFA says it has no plans to move the 2014 World Cup away from Brazil despite the latest setback to preparations for next summer’s tournament.

Two workmen were killed as a crane fell and destroyed parts of Sao Paulo’s Arena Corinthians stadium.

•Irabor ( A s s i s t a n t Secretary).The members are to elect their Chairman.

“The Congress also approved the dissolution of the NFF Appeal Committee and its immediate reconstitution. The new NFF Appeal

star man Cristiano Ronaldo as he sat out the game due to a slight muscular injury.

And with the favourite for this year’s Ballon d’Or still to return, Bale is confident Real can go all in the way in the Champions League this season.

“We showed character and good team spirit when playing a man short,” he told Real Madrid TV. “There are no limits

National School Sports Festival:

•Pinnick Committee is thus composed: Barr. Eddy Mark, Mr. Dotun Coker; Mallam Bala Garba; Mallam Sani Mohammed Gusau; Mr. Victor Nwangwu; Mr. L a w r e n c e Katken(Secretary). The members are to elect their Chairman.''

to what we can achieve in the competition. We have a good chance of winning the Champions League this year.”

V

ARIOUS reports have claimed that former Bolton Wanderers striker Delroy Facey is the former Premier League player involved in the match fixing allegations.

Six people have been arrested by police investigating a “suspected international illegal betting syndicate” involved in the fixing of English football games.

Along with the former Premier League player, three current players were among those detained.

A spokesman for the NCA said: “Six men have been arrested across the country as part of a National Crime Agency

IGER State has announced their intention to win more medals in the ongoing Sterling Bank-sponsored 6th National School Sports Festival holding in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital Director of Schools Sports, Niger State, Abdulmumini Madami, said with few sports remaining to be concluded, the state expects to clinch more medals in the competition which finally comes to a

close on Saturday. Madami said with the support from the state government, school sports has come to stay in Niger, and the development of sports at the grass root in the state has become imminent.

“What we have going for us is the interest of the Governor in sports. Luckily enough we have a Governor that has love for the Nigerian child and this has informed the administration of Babangida Aliu Muazu to revive school sports in Niger

State. To achieve this he established the Directorate School Sports in the Ministry of Education and since the inception of this administration, the schools in Niger State have evolved in class competitions, school based competitions, inter house sports competitions, and all these are geared towards discovering talents at the grass root,” he said.

•Facey investigation into alleged football match fixing. The focus of the operation is a suspected international illegal betting syndicate.

“The NCA is working closely with the Gambling Commission and the Football Association. This is an active investigation and we are unable to provide further detail at this time.”

Okocha wants Puma to kit Eagles

F

ORMER Super Eagles captain, Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha, has not stopped reflecting on the impact sports wear manufacturers, Puma had on his eventful career, long after he has hung his boots.

Okocha, who is a Puma ambassador was the cynosure of all eyes at the

launch and opening of the new Puma store at the Palms shopping mall Lekki Lagos said it was time for him to pay back.

He promised to ensure the brand kits the national team.

According to Okocha, Puma’s entry into the country will impact positively on Nigerian sports due to it’s

Niger target more medals N

Brazil are due to play the opening match of the World Cup in the 65,000 capacity venue in less than 200 days.

Senior sources within world football’s governing body continue to insist “there is no plan B” for the World Cup.

Match fixing: Former Bolton striker arrested

Real can win the Champions League — Bale

G

No plans to move 2014 World Cup

Head of Glo World, Globacom, Brenda Akhigbe welcomes the Director of Media Division, CAF Junior Binyam (right) and Media Manager, CAF Mohamed Thabet (left) during the media briefing on 2013 Glo CAF Awards in Lagos on Monday.

innovative and dynamic style and the opportunities it creates for communities within which it operates..

“It is a premium brand and we all stand to benefit from it here in Nigeria,” Okocha said, adding, “Puma extended my career and made it wonderful. I am glad to be an ambassador of this brand. I’ll also, in my own little way, make sure that they start to kit our national team. Puma will definitely make an impact here considering our huge population and the fashionable nature of Nigerians,” he said Puma’s General Manager, Eastern Europe /Middle East/ Africa and India, Mr Martyn Bowen, said that Puma has the ambition to be the fastest sports brand in the world and Nigeria will be a major beneficiary.

Vanguard, FRIDAY NOVEMBER 29, 2013 — 63

No big deal owing Keshi -– NFF

BY JACOB AJOM

A

MIDST reports on the failure of the Nigeria Football Federation to pay the monthly salaries of Super Eagles head coach, Stephen Keshi, who is being owed for several months, President of the NFF, Aminu Maigari has explained that the situation in the Glass House was not peculiar to Keshi.

•Keshi

Speaking after receiving the Sports Administrator of the Year Award in Lagos, early in the week, Maigari noted that the financial situation in the Glass House was bleak. “Yes we are owing Keshi, so what?” he asked, adding, “but Keshi is not the only employee in the NFF who has not got his salary. We have about 11 national teams and all have coaches. It is only fair that we treat

them equally. My management staff have not received their salaries for over a year and nobody is making noise about it.”

He spoke further. “We have to be very careful the way we amplify this Keshi salary issue. If this is unduly amplified we will be downgrading our country,” Maigari said, pointing out that “apart from salary, Keshi doesn’t pay for

anything.

“The house he lives in is paid for by NFF, the food he eats is NFF, his movement (transport) is NFF. So what are we talking about?”

It has been reported that the NFF’s indebtedness to all the national team coaches amounts to a whopping N77 million out of which N36 million makes up Keshi’s share.

Moses demands more Liverpool action S

UPER Eagles midfielder Victor Moses says he is looking to get more game time at Liverpool after falling off the Reds’ starting eleven.

The 22-year-old started six games to the Merseyside club after completing his loan switch from Chelsea, but has had to come off the

bench in his last few appearances.

“The main thing is to be on the pitch and enjoy football. That has always been on my mind – to play games,” he told Liverpool Echo.

“There was only a little spell at Wigan when I first signed there and I wasn’t in the team every week.

“I’ve always gone to places for the football, places where I’m going to play. By playing, you learn. It might seem I’ve been around for a long time but I’m still only 22.

“I think I can develop a lot more but I realise to achieve that I’ve got to play as much as possible.”

Moses played in a more central role

Echiejile eyes Braga milestone Sporting Braga fullback Elderson Echiejile is on the verge of a significant milestone in his career with the Portuguese club.

Currently on 99 appearances for the Archbishops in all competitions, if the Nigeria international is fielded

Continues from BP yesterday.

Amanze, a member of FIFA Statutes Committee and who is well respected for his knowledge of the game, delivered goodwill messages from Hayatou and Blatter to the packedfull congress.

His gesticulation and manner of delivery excited the delegates. Amanze said that Blatter recalled the drama at the VIP box in China during the Olympics soccer semi final event between Nigeria and Belgium. Hayatou, the CAF President and Michel Platini, the UEFA President, were seated for the game and before Blatter boasted so much about the outcome that they challenged each other with a betting on who will win.

Hayatou boasted about

against Olhanense today, he will join the list of players who have played 100 games for the League Cup winners.

The possibility of reaching that milestone is very high, having lasted the entire duration in Braga’s 1 - 0 loss to Benfica

on November 24.

Elderson Echiejile made his debut for Sporting Braga in the 3 - 1 win over Portimonense on 13 August, 2010.

He has a contractual relationship with the Portuguese club until the summer of 2014.

Blatter

following the many litigations that the NFF was going through. In Port Harcourt in the last Congress, peace had returned. Then Amanze said that “this year the result of peace could be seen in the achievement recorded in the Nation Cup victory, world Cup qualification and the U-17 victory in UAE. In his own remarks, NFF President, Aminu Maigari reeled out all the achievements and said that the ultimate for his board was to go to Brazil and put up a performance that no other Africa country has been able to achieve in the World Cup. And that would mean going beyond the quarter final.

Meanwhile, in the charity match, Enyimba defeated Kano Pillars 2-0.

Africa’s representative Nigeria and Platini gave the match to Belgium.

Blatter was not only a witness but also the arbiter in the betting. When Nigeria scored the first goal, Hayatou moved over to Platini and said “I told you! Second goal came, he moved over and said “I told you.” When Nigeria scored the fourth goal, Hayatou yelled to Platini, “it is finished.” Blatter, according to Uchegbulam recalled that drama and said they should tell the delegates to ensure that Eagles do well in the World Cup so that they can all recall the China drama.

Amanze recalled that the message to Nigeria in 2011 Congress was for peace to reign in our football,

against boyhood club Crystal Palace but has often been used wide on the left and he says he doesn’t mind playing in either position.

“When you’re in the middle the ball comes to you more often – but usually there are more players around to stop you,” he added.

“On the wing sometimes you can drift in and out of the game depending on how things are going.

“But you have more space so when the ball does come, you have a better chance of causing problems.

“At the end of the day you have to find a way to influence the game wherever you are playing.

Pharaohs get new coach

F

ORMER Egypt midfielder and assistant coach, Shawki Gharib has been appointed to succeed American Bob Bradley, whose contract expired at the end of the country’s unsuccessful 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign this month.

“The Egypt football association (EFA) board of directors decided during a meeting on Wednesday to appoint Shawki Gharib as coach of the national team,” spokesman Azmy Megahed told Reuters, without giving details about the length of the contract.

•Moses

FIFA Continues from BP Nigeria qualify for her fifth FIFA World Cup and also a thrilling 2-2 draw recorded against four-time World Champions Italy in a high profile friendly game at the Craven Cottage days back.

Despite the slide on the general table, the African Champions maintain the fourth position amongst African teams as they are ranked behind the trio of Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Algeria who all interestingly will be

flying the continent’s flag at next year’s World Cup in Brazil having secured tickets in the recently concluded World Cup Play-offs.

The latest edition of the monthly rankings produced no changes at the top as Spain remains number one in the world ahead of Germany, Argentina and Colombia who all follow in that order.

The next edition of the rankings will be published by FIFA on Thursday December 19 2013.

VANGUARD, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2013

In today's Sports Vanguard

Brazil: Blatter sends message to Nigeria

BY ONOCHIE ANIBEZE Amanze Uchegbulam’s address was factual, his delivery d r a m a t i c a l l y entertaining and the response from the hall was an ovation.

The former Vice president of NFF was in Warri to deliver the message of FIFA President, Sepp Blatter and CAF President Isa Hayatou to the General Congress of the FA Continues on page 63

FIFA Rankings: Eagles drop Africa top 10

•Blatter

No big deal owing Keshi — NFF • Page 63

1 Côte d’Ivoire 2 Ghana 3 Algeria 4 Nigeria 5 Egypt 6 Cape Verde 7 Mali 8 Tunisia 9 Cameroon 10 B/Faso

T

HE Super Eagles moved down three places from 33rd to 36th position in the latest world rankings released Thursday by FIFA, the global football governing body.

The downward slide comes despite the impressive wins over Ethiopia which saw

Continues on page 63

•Ambrose (l), Moses

QUICK CROSSWORD

Sudoku TODAY'S

PUZZLE

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 2 Banquet (5) 7 Object (5) 8 Store (5) 10 Manufacturer (5) 12 Menagerie (3) 13 Hell (5) 15 Sailor (7) 17 Worn (6) 19 Entrap (3) 20 Disease (7) 23 Swerve (4) 25 Relax (4) 26 Deceived (7) 30 Healthy (3) 31 Death (6) 34 Greeted (7) 37 Pattern (5) 38 Lettuce (3) 39 Storehouse (5) 40 Lawful (5) 41 Soar (5) 42 Command (5)

DOWN 1 Prevent (5) 2 Stormed (5) 3 Rubber (6) 4 Appear (4) 5 Journal (7) 6 Fire (5) 9 Pass (3) 11 Festered (7) 13 Weighty (5) 14 Drugged (5) 16 Golf-peg (3) 18 Weakened (7) 21 Agreeable (5) 22 Spree (5) 24 Denial (7) 27 Illuminated (3) 28 Relegate (6) 29 Confronted (5) 32 Engine (5) 33 Drain (5) 35 Record (3) 36 Expensive (4)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 2, Mania 7, Line 8, Linger 9, Total 11 Rid 13, Aid 15, Eden 16, Gas 18, Flee 19, Arsenal 20, Eros 22, Deer 23, Saddled 25, Vied 27, Ear 28, Here 30, End 31, Dad 33, Seamy 36, Revile 37, Avid 38, Troop.

DOWN: 1, Rigid 2, Met 3, Nut 4, All 5, One 6, Eerie 10, Alas 11, Reserve 12, Deposed 13, Alleged 14, Decreed 16, Grade 17, Sever 18, Fad 21, Sad 24, Lane 26, Inter 29, Rabid 32, Wit 33, Set 34, Ado 35, Yap.

How to Play Sudoku

P

lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number).

Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row.

No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

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